Democratic strategist James Carville reportedly expressed strong reservations about the prospect of Elon Musk rejoining the Democratic Party during a recent podcast interview.
Carville’s comments came in the wake of Musk’s endorsement of President Donald Trump and his significant financial contributions to Trump’s successful 2024 presidential campaign.
On The Daily Beast Podcast, Carville dismissed the idea of wooing Musk back into the Democratic fold, questioning the value he would bring.
“What does he bring? Look at the damage he’s done to the federal government,” Carville remarked, reflecting a broader sentiment among some Democrats who feel Musk has shifted his allegiance away from the party.
Musk, the CEO of X (formerly Twitter), has faced increasing scrutiny from Democrats since his acquisition of the social media platform and his vocal support for Republican candidates.
Carville’s skepticism was further underscored by host Joanna Coles, who noted that while Musk’s platform is influential, his political contributions have been divisive.
Carville’s comments highlight a growing rift within the Democratic Party regarding how to engage with figures who have previously aligned with their values but have since crossed party lines.
“Why do we want him?” Carville asked, emphasizing the need for the party to focus on its core principles rather than courting controversial figures.
Coles pointed out Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which claims to have saved taxpayers an estimated $170 billion by renegotiating contracts and eliminating fraud.
However, Carville remained unconvinced, suggesting that Musk had once been seen as an asset but had now become a liability.
“Maybe he used to be smart and then he went crazy,” Carville quipped, reflecting the frustration felt by many in the party.
The dramatic shift in Musk’s public perception among Democrats is notable. Once regarded as a progressive icon, Musk’s net favorable rating among Democrats has plummeted from plus 35 in 2017 to minus 91 by 2025, illustrating a seismic change in how he is viewed within the party.
CNN’s Harry Enten recently remarked on this significant shift, noting that few public figures have seen such a drastic change in perception over a relatively short period.
As the far-left party grapples with its identity and direction, Carville’s remarks serve as a reminder of the challenges it faces in reconciling differing viewpoints within its ranks.
The party must navigate the complexities of attracting diverse voices while remaining true to its foundational values.
Carville’s stance also echoes critiques from within the party, such as those voiced by CNN’s Van Jones, who has cautioned against alienating prominent left-leaning figures.
As liberal Democrats reflect on their strategies leading into future elections, the question of how to handle figures like Musk will remain a contentious issue.
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