Bessent Throws Shade on Musk's Ambitious Political Venture

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man known for groundbreaking ventures, announced a new party: the America Party.
Musk’s move signals his intent to shake the old two-party rule. He calls that system a “uniparty” that steals freedom. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent voices doubt.

Bessent spoke on CNN’s State of the Union. He said Musk’s many company boards might not back a shift from business to politics. Bessent added that Musk excels at running companies, not political campaigns. In his view, the party may pull Musk away from his core work.

Public views on Musk’s political steps are mixed. A March NBC News poll noted that many voters liked his earlier project, DOGE. Yet, almost half held a negative view of both the party and Musk himself. Those opinions add fuel to the fire, especially after Musk’s sharp cost-cutting moves hurt his reputation and corporate ties.

Musk stands firm. He envisions his party as a group that works independently yet talks with both major parties. His plan targets a few key Senate seats and House districts, hoping that winning a few spots might sway critical laws. Other figures—billionaire Mark Cuban and former Trump aide Anthony Scaramucci—have shown interest.

Practical challenges persist. Registering a party means meeting Federal Election Commission rules, and no public evidence shows that the America Party has finished this step. Observers now wait to see if Musk can turn his bold idea into a real political force or if business will always come first.

In summary, Musk’s step into politics challenges old systems. Yet, voices like Scott Bessent’s remind us that when a business leader enters politics, risks are close at hand. The coming months will tell whether the America Party can take root or if Musk’s business needs will remain his main focus.