Billionaire tech leader Elon Musk delivered a somber message about the upcoming presidential election during an appearance with Donald Trump, labeling the Republican candidate as the sole contender capable of “preserving democracy in America.”
In Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump survived an assassination attempt in July, Musk expressed that the upcoming election could determine the nation’s future, asserting, “this will be the last election” if Trump does not secure victory. Dressed in a “Make America Great Again” cap, Musk seemed to acknowledge the seriousness of his statements.
Musk proclaimed, “As you can see I am not just MAGA — I am Dark MAGA,” during his appearance at the rally. This marked Musk’s inaugural participation in one of Trump’s events, highlighting their strengthening alliance as the presidential campaign moves forward. Musk established a super PAC to support Trump and has been significantly investing in voter mobilization efforts. Trump has indicated that, if elected, he would consider Musk for a position leading a government efficiency commission.
Earlier in August, Musk engaged in an extended public conversation with Trump on X, where the former president addressed the assassination attempt, immigration issues, and his intentions to reduce government regulations.
At the rally, Musk painted Trump as a defender of free speech, claiming that Democrats seek “to take away your freedom of speech, they want to take away your right to bear arms, they want to take away your right to vote, effectively.” He also criticized a California initiative aimed at eliminating voter ID requirements.
The rally occurred at the location where gunfire from an attack had grazed Trump and resulted in the death of a supporter, Corey Comperatore, while injuring several others. Several family members of Comperatore, along with other attendees and first responders from the July event, returned for the Saturday gathering. Also present were Trump’s running mate, Republican Ohio Senator JD Vance, his son Eric Trump, daughter-in-law and RNC co-chair Lara Trump, and various Pennsylvania lawmakers and sheriffs.