Trump’s Inner Circle Just Neutered Elon’s DC Clout—Here’s How

The political machine grinds faster than a crypto bull run. Trump’s team has systematically sidelined Musk’s influence in Washington—no tweets, no tunnels, just cold hard political calculus.

Behind the scenes: Lobbyists who once groveled for Musk’s favor now pivot faster than a meme coin. The billionaire’s calls go straight to voicemail—if they’re returned at all.

The kicker? Even Musk’s pet projects—think hyperloop pipe dreams—got the budgetary guillotine. Meanwhile, DC’s real power players are too busy shorting Tesla stock to notice.

Republicans want Elon’s money, not his face

David McIntosh, head of Club for Growth, said Elon should stay behind the scenes. “Hopefully he stays a long time to do that,” he said, “but doesn’t take on this role of a campaign surrogate.” Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana admitted, “I miss him,” but also claimed Elon stepping back won’t change the midterms.

Even Jim Justice, a Trump loyalist from West Virginia, offered a half-praise. He called Elon a “patriot” but added, “We got too close to the fence. We mowed too far. We just adjust.” Translation: the guy caused problems, and the GOP had to walk it back.

Early this year, Trump’s campaign couldn’t stop mentioning Elon in emails. They used him to fire up donors online. One February email read: “I love Elon Musk! The media wants to drive us apart, and it’s not working. He’s great.”

Now, since early spring, there’s been just one more email. It promoted a “Gulf of America” hat that Elon tried on. That’s it. One email. One hat.

Democrats still use Elon as political ammo

But the Democrats aren’t dropping him just because Trump did. In fact, they’re doubling down. CJ Warnke, spokesperson for House Majority PAC, said Elon still works as a political symbol — especially when connected to Trump and the Republicans around him.

Even though his mentions have slowed, Elon keeps popping up in Democratic campaign ads. In New Jersey’s June 10 gubernatorial primary, four out of six Democratic candidates have mentioned him in TV ads. But not as the star. He usually shows up next to Trump or flashes on the screen for a second. Democrats are adjusting the tone, but they’re not letting go.

In Virginia and Pennsylvania, candidates still bring up Elon in press releases and online posts. Sometimes without naming Trump at all. He’s become a short-hand for everything they think is wrong with the Trump administration. Medicaid cuts. Tariffs. Deportations. Even if he’s no longer front-and-center in DC, they want voters to know he’s still around.

Elon hasn’t fully disappeared. Last week, he joined Trump and other tech CEOs in Saudi Arabia. They shook hands with foreign officials and spoke at an investment forum. Back home, DOGE is still running — using staff that Elon brought in. His 130-day appointment might be ending, but the program keeps going.

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