US President Joe Biden has recently publicly criticized Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for his hypocritical stance on immigration issues. Biden pointed out that Musk, now the world’s richest man, started his career in the United States as an illegal worker. This accusation directly challenges Musk’s position on immigration issues, especially his criticism of US immigration policies, while overlooking his own history as an undocumented worker.
Biden made the remarks at a Democratic campaign event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He cited a report from The Washington Post, which stated that Musk, born in South Africa, had lived in the US illegally at the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey. The report noted that Musk arrived in Palo Alto, California, in 1995 on a student visa for a graduate program at Stanford University, but instead of enrolling in any courses, he began his entrepreneurial journey.
Biden’s comments have sparked widespread attention and discussion. On one hand, they reveal a little-known chapter behind Musk’s success story in the United States. On the other hand, they reflect the complex views of American society on immigration and undocumented workers. Biden’s criticism is not just an attack on Musk personally but also a direct intervention in the current debate on immigration policy within the US political climate.
Musk responded to this on social media, stating, “I was actually allowed to work in the US.” He added, “The Biden puppet is lying.” This indicates that while Biden’s remarks may be intended to criticize Musk’s political stance, Musk himself does not accept these allegations and is prepared to defend his reputation and past.
This incident highlights a core issue in US politics: even the most successful entrepreneurs may have complex histories when it comes to immigration. It also serves as a reminder that the debate on immigration policy in the US is far from over and is often used as a tool in political struggles. Biden’s criticism of Musk could be seen as a political strategy aimed at diverting public attention from other issues, especially as the midterm elections approach. However, such tactics may further exacerbate the divisions and mistrust already present in American society.