WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former White House strategist Steve Bannon has called for Donald Trump to launch a full federal investigation into Elon Musk, accusing the billionaire of being an “illegal alien” and urging the suspension of his federal contracts and security clearance.
In a provocative interview, Bannon, one of Trump’s most influential advisers, said he was advising the former president to scrap all government contracts with Musk’s companies and investigate his immigration history, alleged drug use, and attempts to access classified briefings.
“They should initiate a formal investigation of his immigration status, because I am of the strong belief that he is an illegal alien, and he should be deported from the country immediately,” Bannon stated.
Trump-Musk Fallout Turns Ugly
The remarks come amid a high-profile clash between Musk and Trump, with the two publicly trading insults on social media. Musk, who recently resigned from a special advisory position in the Trump administration focused on federal spending, has since turned on the former president, accusing him of economic mismanagement and corruption.
In response, Trump’s inner circle appears to be rallying against the SpaceX and Tesla CEO. Bannon’s latest comments suggest that the Trump campaign may move toward a more aggressive stance against Musk in the months ahead.
Billions in Federal Contracts on the Line
Musk’s companies — Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and xAI — have benefited significantly from U.S. federal spending. In 2023 alone, Musk’s firms received an estimated $3 billion across nearly 100 federal contracts with 17 agencies, according to public records.
Bannon insisted that those contracts should be immediately canceled, citing national security concerns. He also raised alarms over reports by The New York Times alleging recreational drug use by Musk and his pursuit of classified briefings related to China, arguing that his security clearance should be suspended pending investigation.
“This is a matter of national security. Elon Musk cannot be allowed to operate above the law just because he’s rich,” Bannon said.
Political and Legal Implications
The call for deportation and a probe into Musk’s legal status is unprecedented. Musk, originally from South Africa, has previously detailed his immigration journey, which included student and work visas before obtaining U.S. citizenship in 2002.
Men’s Champion Long Sleeve Shirt (Virgo Edition)
Matte Paper Framed Poster With Mat
Latte mug
Recycled Scrunchie
Men’s Slip-On Canvas Shoes
Men’s slip-on canvas shoes
Virgo Travel Mug (Traditional Edition)
Adidas Sport Polo (Virgo Edition)
All-over Shweshwe Print Bandana
Military Green Towel
No credible evidence has surfaced publicly to suggest Musk is in the U.S. unlawfully.
Nonetheless, the rising political hostility between the two powerful figures marks a dramatic collapse of what was once a strategic alliance. Musk was instrumental in supporting Trump’s 2024 election efforts and was deeply involved in the now-defunct federal spending oversight initiative known as DOGE.
