Tech mogul Elon Musk has publicly endorsed former President Donald Trump after a dramatic incident at Trump’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The rally was interrupted by gunfire, causing a frantic scene as Secret Service agents swiftly removed Trump from the stage for safety.
Videos circulating on social media captured the tense moments as Trump was hurried off stage, with apparent signs of minor injury visible on his face and ear. Musk took to the social media platform X to announce his endorsement, tweeting, “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” along with a video of the evacuation.
Musk’s endorsement of Trump marks a significant shift, especially given his previous statements distancing himself from direct political involvement. Earlier reports suggested Musk had made a substantial donation to America PAC, a group supporting Trump’s campaign, although the exact amount remains undisclosed pending the PAC’s donor list release on July 15, 2024.
This unexpected endorsement is expected to bolster Trump’s campaign as he prepares for the upcoming November 5, 2024, presidential election. Despite their complex relationship, characterized by Trump’s admiration for Tesla’s achievements and Musk’s criticisms of certain Biden administration policies, Musk had refrained from publicly endorsing any candidate until now.
The fallout from the rally incident and Musk’s endorsement are likely to shape the dynamics of the presidential race in the coming months.