Caught Between Two Worlds: Why Neither Trump nor South Africa Fully Wants Elon Musk
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| picture of president trump and Elon Musk in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on 30 May 2025. Picture: Allison ROBBERT / AFP |
In a jaw-dropping statement, former President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of deporting Elon Musk, igniting a firestorm of speculation around the billionaire’s future in America. But here’s the kicker even Elon’s birth country, South Africa, doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to have him back.
Trump’s Deportation Threat: A Political Stunt or Serious Move?
During a recent interview, when asked if he’d deport Elon Musk, Trump responded cryptically, “We might have to put DOGE on Elon,” referring to the Dogecoin cryptocurrency and a mysterious “monster” that might “go back and eat Elon.” Alongside this bizarre metaphor, Trump threw in a jab about Musk receiving “a lot of subsidies”
Reporter: Are you going to deport Elon Musk?
— Acyn (@Acyn) July 1, 2025
Trump: We'll have to take a look. We might have to put DOGE on Elon. You know what DOGE is? The monster that might have to go back and eat Elon. Wouldn’t that be terrible? He gets a lot of subsidies. pic.twitter.com/6I0OAIv7Js
Whether a political play or a hint at real intentions, Trump’s remarks have set tongues wagging.
But What About South Africa?
Elon Musk’s homeland isn’t exactly waving a red carpet for his return either. While South Africans feel some pride in Musk’s global success, public sentiment is mixed and often critical. Many South Africans point out that Musk’s businesses operate primarily abroad, and his recent controversy around Starlink and South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment policies hasn’t helped his reputation back home.
Musk’s own criticisms of South Africa’s regulations, especially his claim that “Starlink is not allowed to operate here because I’m not black,” sparked backlash and political tensions. South African leaders emphasize their commitment to policies designed to empower the historically marginalized majority policies Musk’s stance challenges.
The Bigger Picture: Neither Country Seems to Want Elon Fully
So, while Trump toys with the idea of deportation, South Africa’s mixed feelings and political stance send a clear message: Elon Musk may not find a welcome homecoming anytime soon.
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