Elon Musk launched an aggressive attack on Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy via social media on Tuesday, following Duffy’s remarks about potentially sidelining SpaceX from NASA’s lunar mission. Musk, who serves as CEO of SpaceX, disparaged Duffy with insults, branding him “Sean Dummy” and questioning Duffy’s capability in managing the nation’s space program due to his background as a championship lumberjack.
Duffy, a former congressional representative who has a $2.9 billion contract with NASA for a lunar lander, expressed concerns during a CNBC interview that SpaceX is falling behind schedule. This delay could impact NASA’s goal of returning humans to the moon before China, as part of the Artemis III mission slated for mid-2027.
In response to Duffy’s criticisms, Musk defended SpaceX’s capabilities, highlighting the company as the only one to have successfully human-certified a new orbital spacecraft in the United States. He further rebuked Duffy’s remarks, arguing that they jeopardize NASA’s future. Musk’s posts included memes and provocatively worded comments, emphasizing his disdain for Duffy’s perceived incompetence.
The discourse escalated as Musk reacted to reports suggesting Jared Isaacman, a close ally of Musk who had previously been nominated for NASA administrator, might be in contention for the role again as Duffy explores consolidating NASA under the Transportation Department. Isaacman, who has funded and commanded two missions aboard SpaceX’s spacecraft, stated that while grateful for the consideration, he respects Duffy and simply wishes to see NASA thrive.
Duffy’s spokesperson clarified that the secretary had not indicated a desire to lead NASA himself but believed the agency could benefit from being part of the Cabinet under the Department of Transportation. The spokesperson also conveyed Duffy’s commitment to supporting whatever candidate the President puts forth for the NASA administrator role.
This ongoing conflict highlights the tensions within the government surrounding space exploration and the competitive landscape between private aerospace companies like SpaceX and government agencies. As the space race continues, both NASA and private entities will need to collaborate effectively to ensure advancements in human spaceflight while navigating political rivalries.