Core Viewpoint - Elon Musk is reportedly slowing down his plans to form a new political party, focusing instead on his businesses and maintaining relationships with influential Republican figures, particularly JD Vance, who is seen as a potential successor to Trump's MAGA movement [2]. Group 1 - Musk has expressed a desire to avoid creating a third party that could siphon votes from the Republican Party, contrasting with his earlier statements about forming the "American Party" to represent discontent with the two major parties [2]. - Recently, Musk has been in contact with Vance, indicating that pursuing a new party could harm their relationship, and he is considering using his wealth to support Vance's potential presidential campaign in 2028 [2]. - In the 2024 elections, Musk's political action committee is expected to invest millions in swing states to support Trump and other Republicans, highlighting his ongoing commitment to the Republican Party [4]. Group 2 - Musk's team has not engaged with key figures who support the new party concept, and a planned call with an organization focused on third-party operations was canceled as Musk chose to concentrate on his business [4]. - If Musk abandons the idea of a new party, it would be a significant win for the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections, as third parties historically act as spoilers [4]. - Vance's spokesperson has emphasized the importance of unity within the Republican Party, suggesting that Musk's return to the fold would be beneficial [4]. Group 3 - Recent interactions suggest a reconciliation between Musk and Trump, with both parties refraining from public disputes and Trump expressing support for Musk's businesses [6]. - Despite initial support from other entrepreneurs for Musk's party idea, there has been a lack of further communication regarding the initiative, indicating a potential decline in momentum [6][8]. - Political advisors have noted that if Musk insists on forming a new party, it could jeopardize his relationships with Republican consultants who previously supported him financially [7].

Core Viewpoint - Elon Musk announced the formation of a new political party called "American Party," which has drawn criticism from former President Donald Trump, who believes that a third party would only create chaos in the existing two-party system [1][3][5]. Group 1: Political Developments - Trump's response to Musk's announcement was dismissive, stating that the U.S. operates best under a two-party system and that third parties have historically failed [3][5]. - Trump expressed concern over Musk's political ambitions, suggesting that they could undermine his business responsibilities, particularly in relation to Tesla and SpaceX [5][6]. - The Democratic Party appears to welcome the rift between Trump and Musk, viewing it as a sign of disarray within Trump's political faction [6]. Group 2: Business Implications - Azoria Partners, an investment company planning to launch a fund related to Tesla, announced a delay in their project due to Musk's political involvement, indicating a conflict with his role as CEO [5]. - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen commented on Musk's unpopularity in polls, suggesting that his companies' boards might prefer him to stay away from politics [5]. - Musk previously invested nearly $300 million to support Trump's 2024 campaign, highlighting the complex relationship between Musk and political figures [5].

Group 1 - Musk's announcement of forming a new political party, named "American Party," has drawn criticism from Trump, who claims Musk is "out of control" and that third parties have historically failed in the U.S. [1][4][5] - Musk's focus for the next 12 months will be on the House and Senate, indicating a strategic approach to the upcoming midterm elections [2][9]. - The "American Party" aims to represent 80% of moderate voters and seeks to gain seats in Congress during the midterm elections [9]. Group 2 - Trump's "Big and Beautiful" tax and spending bill has eliminated tax credits that previously encouraged electric vehicle purchases, which could significantly impact Tesla's sales, potentially leading to a loss of $1.2 billion annually [6][10]. - The proposed budget cuts for NASA could directly affect SpaceX, as the budget may be reduced from approximately $7.3 billion to $3.9 billion, impacting government contracts crucial for SpaceX's operations [10]. - The relationship between Musk and Trump has deteriorated due to a series of trust issues and conflicting interests, with Musk advocating for free markets and technological advancement, while Trump focuses on populism and security [10]. Group 3 - The political future of the "American Party" remains uncertain, as the process for establishing a new party in the U.S. involves complex certification procedures [11][12]. - The current electoral system in the U.S. is not favorable for third parties, making it difficult for them to gain significant traction or representation [12][13]. - Historical context shows that third parties have struggled to attract votes in national elections, with the last instance of a third-party candidate winning electoral votes occurring in 1968 [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - Trump criticizes Elon Musk for his recent actions and comments on Musk's potential political ambitions and influence on NASA leadership [1] Group 1: Criticism of Elon Musk - Trump expresses disappointment in Musk's recent behavior, describing it as "derailed" and likening it to a "derailed train" [1] - Trump highlights Musk's interest in forming a third political party, stating that such attempts have historically failed in the U.S. [1] Group 2: Electric Vehicle and NASA Comments - Trump mentions a conversation with Musk regarding the termination of electric vehicle subsidies, noting Musk's lack of objection to this decision [1] - Trump raises concerns about Musk's influence on NASA, specifically criticizing Musk's suggestion to appoint a friend to lead the agency, who has Democratic ties and has not previously supported Republican candidates [1]