Category: Donald Trump

Crypto Divides US Bankers as Trump Gains Support, But Harris Seen as Likely Winner

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Banking Sector Split on Trump’s Pro-Crypto Stance and Harris’ Tech Consumer Protections

A recent survey conducted by American Banker has revealed a surprising split among US banking professionals when it comes to the 2024 presidential election. While many within the industry favor Donald Trump’s pro-business stance, a significant majority believe that Kamala Harris will ultimately win the race for the White House. This divide underscores the growing political importance of cryptocurrency regulation, a key issue that has attracted contrasting opinions from the two candidates.

Trump Gains Support for Pro-Crypto Policies

According to the survey, 58% of bankers view Trump as the more favorable candidate for the financial sector. His shift towards a pro-crypto agenda has resonated with many professionals in the industry, especially those who are looking for more regulatory clarity in the rapidly growing cryptocurrency market.

Trump, who once criticized Bitcoin, has now rebranded himself as a supporter of digital assets, promising to make the US a global leader in the space. His administration, should he win, is expected to take a less restrictive approach to crypto regulation. He has called for the end of what he terms as an “unlawful crackdown” on cryptocurrencies, positioning himself as a champion of decentralized finance.

Harris’ Consumer Protection Focus and Tech Alignment

In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris has emphasized the importance of consumer protections when it comes to new technologies, including cryptocurrency. Her support for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum computing has not gone unnoticed, but her stance on crypto remains more cautious than Trump’s.

With Silicon Valley’s backing, Harris has long been associated with tech innovation, but her focus leans more towards protecting consumers from potential risks posed by unregulated digital assets. This approach, while praised for its prudence, has not gained as much favor among banking professionals who are eager for more aggressive reforms to support the industry’s involvement in cryptocurrency.

Despite these differences, 59% of bankers surveyed believe that Harris will win the election. Her established ties to Silicon Valley and her broader tech agenda could ultimately sway voters, even if Trump enjoys stronger support from the financial sector.

Ripple CEO Predicts Crypto Reset

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse weighed in on the debate, predicting that a “crypto reset” is inevitable, regardless of who wins the election. Garlinghouse, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency industry, believes that both candidates will need to address the evolving digital economy in a more comprehensive manner.

Speaking at Washington DC Fintech Week, Garlinghouse noted that the current administration’s stance on crypto has been “hostile” but expressed optimism that a change is coming. He also commented on Trump’s pro-crypto position, saying that the former president has emerged as a vocal supporter of the industry. Meanwhile, Harris’ track record in tech offers some reassurance that her administration would not ignore the burgeoning crypto space, even if her policies prioritize consumer safety over rapid deregulation.

Political Divisions in the Crypto Sector

The survey results also highlight a growing trend within US politics: the increasing importance of cryptocurrency in election discourse. Former White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney observed that crypto doesn’t fit neatly into traditional party lines, with both Republicans and Democrats expressing varied opinions on the issue. Mulvaney predicts that cryptocurrency will play an even larger role in future elections as more interest groups and political action committees back pro-crypto candidates.

This trend is already evident, with political action committees like Fairshake and Bitcoin Voter PAC funneling resources into campaigns supporting candidates who are favorable to crypto. Ripple’s Garlinghouse and co-founder Chris Larsen have also made significant contributions to pro-crypto candidates, further cementing the industry’s influence on the political landscape.

As the 2024 election approaches, the division between banking professionals on Trump and Harris reflects broader debates about the future of cryptocurrency regulation. While Trump’s pro-crypto stance has garnered significant support, Harris’ expected victory signals a more cautious approach to the industry. With key figures like Brad Garlinghouse predicting a reset, the future of crypto regulation in the US remains uncertain, regardless of the election’s outcome. However, one thing is clear: the intersection of politics and crypto is only beginning to heat up.

 

From Beats to Ballots: Obama’s Epic ‘Lose Yourself’ Performance at Harris Rally in Detroit

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A Night of Political Passion and Surprising Performances

In a memorable evening that blended politics with hip-hop, former President Barack Obama delivered a show-stopping performance of Eminem’s iconic track “Lose Yourself” at a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris in Detroit on October 22. While many anticipated a live performance from Eminem, it was Obama who took the stage and captivated the audience with his surprising lyrical skills.

Eminem’s Impassioned Call to Action

Before Obama’s electrifying moment, Eminem took center stage to urge the crowd to support Harris in the upcoming election. “The city of Detroit and the whole state of Michigan mean a lot to me,” he declared. He emphasized the importance of voter engagement, stating, “Going into this election, the spotlight is on us more than ever, and I think it’s important to use your voice, so I’m encouraging everybody to get out and vote, please.”

The Detroit rapper didn’t hold back his thoughts on the political climate, subtly referencing his long-standing rivalry with Donald Trump. “People shouldn’t be afraid to express their opinions,” he asserted. “I don’t think anyone wants an America where people are worried about retribution, or what people will do if you make your opinion known.” He positioned Harris as a champion of these freedoms, leading into Obama’s segment by saying, “And here to tell you much more about that, President Barack Obama.”

Obama Steals the Spotlight

As Obama took the stage, he began by paying homage to Eminem, recognizing the artist’s profound impact on Detroit and beyond. He surprised the audience with a flawless rendition of “Lose Yourself,” receiving thunderous applause. The former president joked about his performance, saying, “If Em performs, I might jump out,” showcasing his charisma and connection with the crowd.

Throughout his speech, Obama didn’t shy away from taking shots at Trump. He humorously contrasted Harris’s past job at McDonald’s with Trump’s recent campaign antics, critiquing him for “hawking merch” while running for office and poking fun at his obsession with crowd sizes.

This rally was not just another political event; it was a celebration of community, music, and a call to action as two cultural icons came together to support a candidate they believe embodies the values of progress and unity.

A Longstanding Endorsement

This isn’t the first time Eminem has supported Harris. In 2020, he endorsed the Biden-Harris ticket and authorized “Lose Yourself” for a campaign ad, reflecting his consistent commitment to political engagement. His words and Obama’s performance resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of using one’s voice in shaping the future of America.

As the night drew to a close, attendees left the rally energized, inspired by the combination of music and politics. With such powerful figures backing her, Kamala Harris is poised to make a significant impact as the election approaches, and the events of that evening will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the campaign.

 

Political Shockwaves: Tulsi Gabbard Officially Switches Parties at Trump Rally

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A Bold Move in the Political Landscape

In a dramatic shift that has sent ripples through the political arena, former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has officially joined the Republican Party. This significant announcement came during a rally for Donald Trump in Greensboro, North Carolina, a state known for its pivotal role in elections.

A Complete Break from the Democratic Party

Gabbard, once a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, made her allegiance to the GOP clear as she praised Trump’s leadership. Her departure from the Democrats was solidified when she declared, “I’m proud to stand here with you today, President Trump, and announce that I’m joining the Republican Party.” She emphasized her belief in the party’s foundational values, stating, “I am joining the party of the people… the party of equality.” This announcement marks a complete turnaround for Gabbard, who represented Hawaii’s Second District and served as a vice chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Having left the Democratic Party in 2022, Gabbard’s endorsement of Trump earlier this year signaled her growing alignment with Republican ideals. She now finds herself alongside figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., another former Democrat who has also shifted to the right.

Trump’s Surprise and Support

Donald Trump expressed his astonishment at Gabbard’s decision, welcoming her to the party. “Thank you very much, Tulsi. That’s great. Wow, that was a surprise,” he said, acknowledging her long-standing independence. Trump’s reaction illustrates the significance of Gabbard’s move not just for her, but for the Republican Party as it seeks to broaden its appeal.

Gabbard’s journey from the Democratic Party, where she gained attention during her presidential run in 2020, has been marked by her fierce criticisms of party leadership, particularly her famous exchanges with Kamala Harris. Her recent roles in conservative circles, including hosting a podcast and speaking at various events, have signaled her shifting political ideology.

The Implications of Gabbard’s Shift

Gabbard’s transition raises questions about her future in politics and the dynamics of the Republican Party. As she joins forces with Trump, her presence may energize a segment of voters seeking new voices and perspectives within the GOP. Moreover, her return to North Carolina, a battleground state, places her at the heart of critical electoral battles ahead.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Gabbard’s bold move may inspire other former Democrats to reevaluate their political affiliations. For now, her commitment to the Republican Party represents not only a personal transformation but also reflects broader trends in American politics as divisions deepen and new alliances form.

 

Elon Musk’s Million-Dollar Giveaways for Trump Campaign Raise Legal Alarms

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Musk’s Wealth Sparks Election Controversy Amid Federal Scrutiny

Billionaire Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has once again made headlines by throwing his financial weight behind Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. With promises of $1 million giveaways each day leading up to Election Day, Musk’s actions have prompted intense scrutiny, raising legal questions about whether his financial incentives violate federal laws governing elections. This bold move, while aimed at energizing Trump’s voter base, has ignited concerns about the legality of his tactics, particularly around voter inducement.

A Million-Dollar Promise with Legal Concerns

During a rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Musk presented a $1-million cheque to an attendee, kicking off what he described as a daily giveaway until the November 5 election. The event, hosted by America PAC—a political action committee created by Musk to back Trump’s presidential bid—marked a dramatic escalation in Musk’s involvement in the election. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, quickly voiced concern, stating on NBC’s Meet the Press that the giveaways are “deeply concerning” and warrant law enforcement’s attention. Shapiro’s concerns stem from federal laws that criminalize attempts to pay individuals in exchange for voting or registering to vote.

Musk’s largesse extends beyond the Harrisburg rally. The following day, a woman in Pittsburgh received a similar $1-million cheque, continuing the streak of giveaways orchestrated by Musk and America PAC. The legal implications of these incentives are now the subject of national debate, with legal experts offering differing interpretations of whether Musk’s actions violate federal election laws.

The Legal Grey Area: Payment for Votes or Registration

The Justice Department’s election-crimes manual clearly states that paying individuals to vote or register to vote is a federal crime, punishable by imprisonment. While Musk’s representatives have not responded to these allegations, legal scholars remain divided on whether his giveaways meet the threshold for illegality. Daniel Weiner from the Brennan Center for Justice argues that the giveaways fall into a “grey area,” noting that they appear to skate close to federal prohibitions on financial inducements related to elections.

Richard Hasen, a law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, takes a more critical stance, asserting that the giveaway could indeed be illegal. “I think signing the petition is irrelevant to the legal question because you must be a registered voter,” Hasen said, highlighting that the U.S. Department of Justice’s manual specifically cites lottery chances as potentially illegal payments. Hasen believes the giveaways are timed and structured in a way that could make them a pretext for influencing voter behavior.

On the other hand, Brad Smith, a former Federal Election Commission chairman, suggests that Musk’s actions are likely within legal bounds. Smith contends that the act of signing Musk’s petition, which affirms support for the First and Second Amendments, is sufficiently disconnected from voter registration to avoid violating the law. “The mere fact that there might be an incentive doesn’t arise to a payment for a particular activity,” Smith stated, implying that Musk’s actions, while provocative, may not cross the legal line.

The Battle for the Swing States

Musk’s million-dollar incentives are narrowly targeted at swing states—Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—where voter turnout could determine the outcome of the election. Participants must not only sign Musk’s petition but also be registered voters in these battleground states, further fueling concerns about his motives. Critics argue that Musk’s giveaways could be a strategic attempt to sway voters in states crucial to Trump’s campaign, particularly as Trump faces a tightly contested race against U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris.

Musk’s America PAC plays a significant role in voter mobilization efforts in these critical states. While Musk has supplied over $75 million to America PAC, reports indicate that the group is struggling to meet its voter registration goals. This adds another layer of complexity to the debate over Musk’s involvement, as it suggests that the giveaways may be part of an attempt to bolster flagging efforts to register and mobilize voters.

A Controversy with No Easy Answers

Elon Musk’s foray into the 2024 presidential race has raised serious legal and ethical questions. As his financial support for Trump intensifies, so does the scrutiny surrounding his methods. The legality of Musk’s million-dollar giveaways remains in a grey area, with experts divided on whether his actions constitute illegal voter inducement. As Election Day approaches, it remains to be seen whether law enforcement will investigate Musk’s actions further, or if his high-stakes strategy will be allowed to continue shaping the race in key battleground states.

 

Polls Indicate Trump’s Surge: A Path to a Possible Landslide Victory in 2024 Election

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Unexpected Momentum Builds for Trump

As the 2024 election approaches, former President Donald Trump is witnessing a surprising surge in his chances of achieving a landslide victory. The dynamics of the race are shifting, with Trump needing to secure at least 100 more electoral college votes than his opponent, Kamala Harris, to win decisively. This feat has only been accomplished seven times in the last 50 years, underscoring the significance of this electoral battle.

Trump’s pathway to victory hinges on winning all seven battleground states while also flipping a traditionally Democratic state, such as Minnesota, where he is currently within striking distance. Polls in key swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—historically pivotal in determining election outcomes—indicate that Trump is making incremental gains. After narrowly winning these states in 2016, Trump lost them to Joe Biden in 2020. However, recent polling data from FiveThirtyEight shows that Trump has gained momentum in these areas over the past week.

Key Battleground States in Play

The stakes are high, as securing victories in battleground states is crucial for Trump’s electoral strategy. Speculation is growing that Trump could flip Minnesota, where recent polls indicate Harris is leading by just 5.9 points. If he can secure Minnesota along with the seven battleground states, Trump could potentially amass a substantial lead of 322 electoral votes to Harris’s 216. Such outcomes, once deemed improbable, are now within the realm of possibility according to reports from Newsweek.

Polling organizations like Fabrizio McLaughlin and ActiVote suggest that Trump currently leads in several critical battleground states. However, national polls tell a more complex story. The latest NBC News poll, conducted from October 4 to 8, reveals a dead heat between Trump and Harris, with both candidates receiving 48% support from registered voters. This marked a significant shift from Harris’s earlier lead, largely fueled by Republican voters rallying back to Trump following a rough debate performance. The NBC poll also highlights the various challenges that both candidates face in the run-up to the election.

Challenges Ahead for Both Candidates

Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt observed, “As summer has turned to fall, any signs of momentum for Harris have stopped. The race is a dead heat.” Trump’s advantage stems from voters’ positive evaluations of his previous term, which could sway undecided voters in his favor. Conversely, Horwitt pointed out the pressing question for Harris: “Can she meet the moment and fill in the blanks that voters have about her?”

On the other hand, Trump faces his own challenges. “The challenge for Donald Trump [is] can he make the case that the chaos and personal behavior that bothered so many about his first term will not get in the way of governing and representing America?” Horwitt suggests that the next month will be critical for both candidates as they attempt to navigate these challenges and solidify their bases.

As the election date draws closer, one notable trend is the widening gender gap reflected in the polls, with women tending to favor Harris while men lean towards Trump. Additionally, the issue of abortion remains a crucial talking point for many voters, and how each candidate addresses this topic could prove pivotal in swaying undecided voters during the final stretch of the campaign.

In a race that has become increasingly competitive, Trump’s resurgence presents both opportunities and obstacles as the 2024 election looms on the horizon.

 

Accused Trump Assassination Suspect Vem Miller Says Arrest Was Misunderstanding, Guns Were Lawful

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Vem Miller denies allegations, insists he’s a loyal Trump supporter

In the wake of his arrest outside former President Donald Trump’s rally in Coachella, California, Vem Miller, 49, is pushing back against claims that he posed a threat to Trump’s life. Miller, speaking in his first extended interview since the incident, firmly denied any intent to assassinate the former president, stating that he is, in fact, a staunch Trump supporter.

Miller’s arrest on gun charges had stirred public speculation, particularly following two prior assassination attempts on Trump since July. However, Miller insists the arrest was a misunderstanding, and his possession of firearms was entirely lawful.

“100% a Trump Supporter”

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Miller stressed his loyalty to Trump, stating, “I am 100% a Trump supporter. The claims against me are false.” According to Miller, the firearms found in his vehicle were reported to the authorities at a security checkpoint leading up to Trump’s rally in Coachella. He explained that he regularly travels with guns but has never used them, describing the situation as part of his normal routine.

“I always travel around with my firearms in the back of my truck,” Miller said, emphasizing that he reported the weapons voluntarily when stopped by police at the rally’s security perimeter. The firearms included a loaded gun and high-capacity magazine, which triggered alarm among the authorities, leading to his arrest.

Arrest Sparks Speculation Amid Previous Attempts

Miller’s arrest came at a time of heightened security around Trump, following two recent assassination attempts. The July incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, saw a gunman’s bullet graze Trump’s ear, while a September case involved a man hiding with a rifle near Trump’s Palm Beach golf course. Given this context, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office took Miller’s possession of weapons seriously, with Sheriff Chad Bianco suggesting Miller’s intent might have been harmful.

However, Miller dismisses such assertions. He also argued that documents Sheriff Bianco referred to as fake, including press and VIP passes, were legitimate. Miller believes his swift release on a $5,000 bail underscores that the incident was misunderstood and not part of any plot.

No Federal Charges Filed

While Miller faces state charges for illegal possession of a loaded firearm, no federal charges have been brought against him. A joint statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Secret Service, and FBI acknowledged Miller’s arrest but clarified that Trump was never in immediate danger. “The U.S. Secret Service assesses that the incident did not impact protective operations,” the statement read, adding that the investigation remains ongoing.

As the legal process unfolds, Miller continues to maintain his innocence, asserting that his support for Trump has been misrepresented. “It’s just a misunderstanding,” he reiterated, hopeful that the public will soon see the situation in a clearer light.

 

Security Forces Stop Third Assassination Attempt on Trump, Arrest Suspect with Loaded Firearm

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Heightened Security Ensures Safety at Rally Amid Growing Threats

In a chilling turn of events, a Nevada man was arrested near former President Donald Trump’s rally in California’s Coachella on Saturday after deputies discovered a loaded firearm and high-capacity magazine in his vehicle. Authorities say the arrest likely foiled a third assassination attempt on the former president, further escalating concerns over security at Trump’s public appearances.

A Chilling Plot Unfolds

The suspect, Vem Miller, a 49-year-old Las Vegas resident, was intercepted by Riverside County deputies at a checkpoint approximately half a mile from the rally entrance. His vehicle, a black SUV, was stopped during a routine security check where authorities recovered not only the loaded firearm but also false press and VIP passes, further deepening suspicions of his intent.

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco addressed the severity of the situation, stating, “We probably stopped another assassination attempt.” His comments underscore the gravity of Miller’s alleged plot to target Trump at the rally. Miller, believed to be affiliated with a rightwing anti-government group, was promptly charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Following his arrest, Miller was released on a $5,000 bail, though an investigation into the full scope of his intentions is ongoing.

Heightened Security Measures

“The incident did not impact the safety of former president Trump or attendees of the event,” assured the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office in a public statement, reinforcing the effectiveness of the stringent security measures in place. A joint statement from federal authorities, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Secret Service, and the FBI, echoed this sentiment, affirming that Trump was never in immediate danger. “While no federal arrest has been made at this time, the investigation is ongoing,” the statement read.

These heightened security protocols come in the wake of two prior assassination attempts against Trump, making security at his rallies a paramount concern. The July attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, saw Trump narrowly avoid injury when a gunman’s bullet grazed his ear during a campaign rally. Just two months later, in September, a man was caught hiding near Trump’s Palm Beach golf course with a rifle, ultimately being charged with an attempted assassination.

Escalating Threats to Trump’s Safety

With a history of increasing threats against the former president, authorities remain vigilant. Each foiled attempt serves as a grim reminder of the growing dangers that Trump faces during public engagements. While federal and local authorities work together to ensure the safety of Trump and his supporters, the frequency of these incidents is raising concerns among law enforcement officials.

In conclusion, as Trump continues to attract large crowds at his rallies, the threat to his safety remains a pressing issue. The swift response by security forces in Coachella underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to protect political figures in an increasingly polarized landscape.

 

Election Countdown: Where Do Harris and Trump Stand as the Race Tightens?

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With 23 Days Until the Election, Who’s Leading?

The 2024 United States presidential election is fast approaching, with only 23 days left until November 5. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are in a heated race, each campaigning vigorously to sway undecided voters and shore up their bases. With the national polls showing Harris holding a slight lead, this election is shaping up to be one of the closest in modern history.

Where Do the Candidates Stand in the Polls?

As of October 11, Harris leads the race with 48.5% support, compared to Trump’s 46%, according to polling aggregator FiveThirtyEight. Another source, 270toWin, also shows Harris with a marginal lead at 49.3%, while Trump trails with 46.5%. The battle for key demographics, however, is where the race becomes interesting.

One major surprise comes from Harris’s increasing support among suburban voters, a group that Trump dominated in previous elections. A Reuters-Ipsos poll from October 10 reveals that Harris now leads 47% to 41% among suburbanites. Yet, despite this gain, Harris faces challenges elsewhere, particularly among Black voters. A poll by The New York Times and Siena College shows Harris capturing 78% of the Black vote, a significant drop from the 90% that Joe Biden achieved in 2020.

Hurricane Milton and the Spread of Disinformation

As the election looms, natural disasters such as Hurricane Milton have become political battlegrounds. The powerful Category 5 storm tore through Florida, and as it did, misinformation swirled. Former President Trump falsely claimed that the federal government, led by Democrats, was deliberately neglecting Republican areas. President Biden and Harris pushed back hard, with Biden condemning Trump’s statements as “un-American” and Harris urging for unity during such crises, rather than political division.

These exchanges highlight the contentious nature of this election, where even natural disasters are twisted for political leverage.

The Media Blitz: Harris and Trump Face Off in the Press

The candidates’ relationships with the media have also taken center stage. Harris, initially criticized for avoiding the press, has stepped up her appearances in recent weeks. From podcasts to late-night talk shows, Harris is making her case directly to the American people. In contrast, Trump has pulled back, even refusing a scheduled interview with CBS’s 60 Minutes due to concerns about fact-checking.

Trump’s friction with the media is nothing new, and this latest spat only adds fuel to the fire as both campaigns continue their battle for favorable media coverage.

Health and Competency: A Key Election Issue

Health has been a recurring topic in this election, particularly after the withdrawal of President Biden, who at 81 faced concerns about his ability to lead. Trump, at 78, has also come under scrutiny for his mental acuity, with recent reports analyzing his longwinded speeches and erratic behavior. Meanwhile, Harris, at 59, has used her age and health as a political asset. A memo from her campaign highlights her “physical and mental resiliency” as a key advantage over her older rival.

Trump, however, remains defiant, with his campaign spokesperson insisting that he is in “perfect and excellent health” and more than capable of serving another term.

Looking Ahead

As the election approaches, the race remains fluid, with shifts in key demographics, the impact of natural disasters, and personal attacks all playing critical roles. With Harris holding a narrow lead in national polls, the next few weeks will be crucial for both candidates as they make their final pitches to the American electorate.

 

Former Waymo CEO Criticizes Tesla’s Robotaxi Unveiling, Comparing Musk to Trump

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Former Waymo CEO Criticizes Tesla’s Robotaxi Unveiling, Comparing Musk to Trump

Former Waymo CEO John Krafcik did not hold back in his critique of Tesla’s recent “We, Robot” event, expressing disappointment over what he deemed an unimpressive reveal.

A Flawed Presentation

Tesla CEO Elon Musk showcased a range of prototypes, including the much-anticipated Robotaxi, known as the Cybercab, during the event held at Warner Bros. Discovery’s film studio in Burbank, California. Musk announced that at least 20 Cybercabs had already been manufactured and hinted at production ramping up before 2027. However, Krafcik and several investors reacted negatively, leading to a sharp decline in Tesla shares, which fell by as much as 10% in early trading the following day.

In an emailed statement to Business Insider, Krafcik likened Musk’s presentation to a controversial comment made by former President Donald Trump, stating, “The event last night was the automotive industry version of that, with the CEO of Tesla playing Donald Trump.” Krafcik emphasized that if Tesla were serious about creating a safe and accessible Robotaxi service, the prototype shown would be significantly different from what was presented.

Hurdles Ahead for Robotaxi Production

Krafcik pointed out that the Robotaxi’s design might not meet the needs of all potential users, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities. He noted that the vehicle’s low seats could hinder accessibility and comfort. “Serious Robotaxi companies like Waymo use taller vehicle forms and have high-mounted sensors to improve accessibility, comfort and safety — this vehicle form compromises all of these attributes,” Krafcik explained.

In addition to design concerns, the mass production of Tesla’s Robotaxi faces regulatory challenges. Experts like Phil Koopman highlighted that Tesla will need federal approval to sell a vehicle without traditional controls such as a steering wheel or pedals, a significant barrier for the company’s ambitious plans.

Analyst Perspectives

Musk’s presentation also fell short of expectations for some Wall Street analysts. An analyst from Morgan Stanley described the event as “disappointing” due to its lack of substantial details, predicting that Tesla would face pressure in the market as a result. While analysts from Wedbush acknowledged the presentation as a “glimpse of the future of Tesla and next-generation transportation for consumers,” they too noted a lack of critical information.

Additionally, many were surprised that Musk did not elaborate on the company’s plans for a more affordable electric vehicle. Gene Munster of Deepwater Asset Management pointed out that affordable EVs were a major talking point in Musk’s previous earnings call and suggested that Tesla might be holding back on details to avoid affecting current Model 3 sales.

As Tesla continues to navigate its ambitious goals, the road ahead remains filled with challenges and uncertainties, raising questions about the company’s capacity to deliver on its promises in the rapidly evolving autonomous vehicle market.

 

Elon Musk’s MAGA Shift: From SpaceX to Political Endorsements at Trump Rally

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Elon Musk’s transformation from a tech entrepreneur to a vocal supporter of Donald Trump took center stage at a recent rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Musk’s Presence Electrifies Trump Rally in Pennsylvania

On October 5, 2024, former President Donald Trump made a return to Butler, Pennsylvania, a location where an assassination attempt on his life occurred just months earlier. This time, however, Trump was joined on stage by a surprising figure—billionaire and X owner Elon Musk. The appearance of Musk not only charged the atmosphere but seemed to bolster Trump’s support base, many of whom were already enthusiastic about the former president’s return.

Musk had announced his attendance on X a day before the rally, causing excitement among Trump’s supporters. Some attendees, such as Sherry O’Donnell, admitted that Musk’s presence made the event even more appealing. O’Donnell wasn’t alone in her admiration for Musk. Brian Yanoviak, a delegate at the Republican National Convention, expressed his approval: “He understands what’s happening to the United States. And he truly cares about the future of our country. Very similar to Trump, very similar to Tucker Carlson, very similar to RFK Jr.”

Indeed, Musk’s presence at the rally was not just symbolic. His message to Trump’s followers was one of urgency. “Get everyone you know, and everyone you don’t know. Drag them to register to vote,” Musk told the crowd. He further warned, “If they don’t, this will be the last election.”

Musk’s Increasing Political Involvement

Musk’s shift towards the MAGA movement represents a broader evolution in his political views. Once a supporter of Democrats like Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, Musk has taken a rightward turn in recent years. His newfound alignment with Trump has manifested not only in public endorsements but in tangible efforts to support the former president’s campaign. Musk’s America PAC, for instance, has funded campaigns and mobilized voters in key swing states, funneling millions into Republican causes and voter outreach efforts.

Musk’s involvement extends beyond mere endorsements. During his appearance at the rally, Musk made a striking declaration: “This election is the most important election of our lifetime. This is no ordinary election.” His political influence was also visible in the PAC’s efforts to collect voter data and promote turnout, offering incentives like referral bonuses for swing state pledges to uphold key constitutional amendments.

Controversy and Free Speech Under Musk’s Leadership

Elon Musk’s acquisition of X (formerly Twitter) has positioned him as a vocal advocate of “free speech absolutism.” Since taking over the platform, Musk has fired much of its trust and safety team, reinstated accounts of controversial figures, and has been accused of amplifying misinformation. While his supporters praise the freedom to express their views openly, critics, including a former Twitter employee, have raised concerns that Musk’s political biases could influence the platform’s ability to regulate content fairly.

At the rally, Musk reiterated unfounded claims that Democrats were manipulating immigration policies to gain political advantage, stirring controversy among detractors. Yet, in Butler, these statements were met with applause, illustrating Musk’s growing influence among Trump’s base.

With Musk’s increasing involvement in U.S. politics and his public alliance with Trump, the 2024 election marks a critical moment in the evolution of his political persona. His once-staunch focus on technology and innovation now seems inseparable from his efforts to reshape the political landscape.