VoteVets launched a new television ad highlighting veterans fired from federal jobs due to Elon Musk’s actions and the resulting impact of the “DOGE endeavor.” The ad features veterans expressing anger and betrayal at losing their positions, implicitly linking Musk’s actions to the Republican Party. This six-figure ad campaign targets five Republican congressmembers in competitive districts. While some Republicans believe Musk’s actions are politically advantageous, the ad suggests the 2026 midterms could become a referendum on Musk’s influence and public perception.
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Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner resigned, citing a need to maintain the administration’s confidence amid calls for privatization from Elon Musk. This follows Musk’s assertion that Amtrak’s financial performance is unacceptable and requires privatization to improve. Despite record ridership and ticket revenue in fiscal year 2024, Amtrak remains unprofitable, a situation it attributes to insufficient federal funding and mandated long-distance service. Amtrak’s board expressed its commitment to working with the current administration to build a better passenger rail system.
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Senator Lisa Murkowski, a vocal critic of DOGE and the Trump administration, defied Elon Musk’s potential retribution, stating that he may fund a challenger in her 2028 reelection campaign. Murkowski attributed the silence of her GOP colleagues to fear of primary challenges fueled by Musk’s and Trump’s influence. Her repeated criticisms of DOGE’s cost-cutting measures and resulting firings, particularly impacting Alaska, highlight her unwavering stance despite potential political consequences. Murkowski’s 2022 primary victory offers some insulation, but the threat of well-funded primary challenges looms large for other GOP senators.
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Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), defends his actions amidst widespread public disapproval. A federal judge ruled that DOGE likely violated the Constitution through actions like shuttering the U.S. Agency for International Development. Musk attributes the backlash, including attacks on Tesla, to his efforts to combat government fraud, despite limited evidence of such fraud. His actions have resulted in the dismissal of tens of thousands of federal workers, jeopardizing essential government services and causing significant public unrest. The controversy highlights the increasing polarization surrounding Musk’s role and the consequences of his sweeping government reforms.
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Despite a reversal of a funding decision, crucial cleanup efforts in Vietnam remain stalled due to unpaid contractors and absent USAID oversight. This inaction stems from drastic budget cuts implemented by the Trump-Musk administration, impacting numerous foreign aid projects. The situation is particularly egregious given the U.S. military’s historical role in creating the dioxin contamination. The failure to address this environmental disaster not only jeopardizes public health but also undermines U.S. international standing.
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The Vancouver Auto Show will not feature Tesla vehicles this year. This decision follows Tesla’s continued refusal to participate in the event, a choice attributed to the automaker’s differing sales and marketing strategies. The absence marks a significant change for the show, as Tesla has been a popular draw in previous years. Organizers expressed disappointment but remain committed to showcasing a diverse range of vehicles.
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A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from further actions against the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The ruling, stemming from a lawsuit filed by fired USAID employees, finds Musk’s actions likely violated the Constitution’s appointments clause and separation of powers. The judge determined Musk, despite lacking formal authority, effectively functioned as DOGE’s administrator, wielding unprecedented power to dismantle agencies. The Trump administration, which vehemently denies the ruling, has vowed to appeal.
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Early Tuesday, a suspect launched a targeted attack on a Las Vegas Tesla facility, using Molotov cocktails and a firearm to damage at least five vehicles, two of which were engulfed in flames. The suspect, wearing all black, spray-painted “RESIST” on the building. Authorities believe the attack was isolated and are increasing police presence at Tesla locations. This incident follows similar acts of vandalism against Tesla property in other states, prompting investigations by the FBI and ATF.
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Early Tesla investor Ross Gerber advocates for Elon Musk’s resignation as CEO, citing his divided attention between Tesla and his new government role advising Donald Trump. Gerber claims Tesla’s business has been neglected, resulting in plummeting sales and a significant drop in market value exceeding $800 billion. He attributes this to Musk’s spread-thin focus, exacerbated by negative publicity from his social media activity and government position. Gerber argues that Musk must either fully dedicate himself to Tesla or appoint a new CEO to address the company’s crisis.
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Judge Theodore Chuang ruled Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) dismantling of USAID was likely unconstitutional, violating the separation of powers by contravening congressional authority. The order prevents further terminations, record destruction, and unauthorized actions regarding USAID, mandating the restoration of employee access to systems and potential headquarters reoccupation. While some plaintiff requests were denied due to USAID’s apparent complicity, the judge found DOGE’s actions harmed the public interest by undermining Congress’s authority. Musk responded by sharing a critical post, suggesting the ruling was politically motivated.
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John Q. Hosedrinker