Why would Musk do this?
In a stunning political twist, Elon Musk gave $15 million to support President Trump and top Republican groups — then launched a rival party just days later.
Newly released records from the Federal Election Commission reveal that on June 27, Elon Musk quietly donated $15 million to three major Republican super PACs:
- MAGA Inc.
- Senate Leadership Fund
- Congressional Leadership Fund
Each group received $5 million to help elect conservative, pro-Trump candidates across the country — a donation many believed signaled Musk’s return to the America First movement.
But just days after making those donations, Musk made a shocking announcement: He’s forming his own political organization — the “America Party” — and has already funneled $45 million into his personal PAC, America PAC, this year alone.
Was Musk Playing Both Sides?
The move raised serious questions among grassroots conservatives. Just weeks earlier, Musk attacked Trump publicly on social media — blasting the President’s proposed “big, beautiful bill” and claiming it would grow the deficit. He later took shots at the administration over the Epstein investigation, then deleted the posts. Despite the public criticism, his donation suggested a potential truce — until he flipped the script.
Trump’s War Chest Keeps Growing
While Musk’s political motives are unclear, Trump’s fundraising momentum is undeniable. His super PAC, MAGA Inc., raked in nearly $177 million in the first half of 2025 and entered July with almost $200 million cash on hand — a massive advantage heading into the 2026 midterm elections.
That money didn’t just come from Musk. A powerhouse lineup of pro-Trump donors helped fill the coffers, including:
- Jared Isaacman, billionaire entrepreneur: $1 million
- Antonio Gracias, former Trump advisor: $1 million
- Marc Andreessen & Ben Horowitz, venture capitalists: $3 million each
- Bill Ford, Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman: $1.25 million
- Tyler & Cameron Winklevoss, crypto investors: $500,000 each
- Timothy Draper, VC investor: $1 million
Conservative Leaders Sound the Alarm
Musk’s sudden pivot has left many asking: Was the $15 million a genuine gift — or a calculated distraction?
While Musk claims to support “American values,” the launch of a third party just as Republicans gear up for crucial races in 2026 has many in the conservative base concerned. The timing couldn’t be worse, and some see it as a deliberate effort to divide the movement.
Still, President Trump’s base remains strong, energized, and well-funded. And with over $200 million ready to fuel the fight for Congress, it’s clear that Trump-aligned conservatives aren’t backing down.