The richest man in the world, Elon Musk is a controversial man with a history of innovation and entrepreneurship. 

He’s one of the most talked about men in America, and after hitching his wagon to Donald Trump in the election, now one of the most influential players in US politics. 

Musk was the largest donor in the 2024 election cycle, spending at least US$277 million to back Trump’s run for the White House, as well as putting his social power behind the candidate. 

Former Managing Editor of Forbes and host of the “What’s Bugging Me” podcast on Ricochet, Dennis Kneale has written a book about Elon Musk’s journey as a CEO.

'The Leadership Genius of Elon Musk' distils the businessman's success down into 11 lessons, breaking down his philosophies, successes, and controversial standing.

Kneale told Mike Hosking he believes Musk got involved in politics reluctantly. 

“I truly believe he never would have gotten involved if he hadn't felt that America was about to tumble down into the woke mind virus and never come back from it.” 

Backing a specific political party or candidate can be a risk for a business, as it runs the risk of alienating potential customers. 

“He knows that he turns off half the audience, and he wants 100% of the audience buying Tesla cars,” Kneale said. 

However, Musk’s passion for free speech and a lack of censorship seems to have outweighed the potential loss of customers. 

“He has more appreciation for the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and free expression than most Americans do.” 

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