Elon Musk

Jump to Last Post 51-100 of 104 discussions (622 posts)
  1. Ken Burgess profile image71
    Ken Burgessposted 2 months ago

    This whole DOGE-Musk-Trump reaction reminds me of the LA fires.

    The whole thing is burning down around us... some of us can see it clearly.

    Those who cannot... are not worried about lack of water in the reservoir, which the State allotted money for, nor about the damage being done and how many more neighborhoods will burn down...

    They are worried that the DEI hire is being blamed and may lose her/they/whatever job because of their complete incompetence.

    Rather than hold those accountable that were responsible for the failures... they want to protect them... rather than fixing the problems they want to divert attention to something else, put the blame on something else.

    In the case of DOGE they are tracking down the fraud and abuse... and all the criminals that are benefiting from it and all the institutions being given government handouts are desperate to stop it.

    1. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 2 months agoin reply to this

      Does it matter that almost all of what they post is misleading and without context and much of it has been debunked very quickly and easily?

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 2 months agoin reply to this

        You would have no idea...  your media sources are compromised, they exist because of the fraud, the money paying them to peddle the lies you believe.

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 2 months agoin reply to this

          Nah. The American people are on to musk and doge.

          1. Ken Burgess profile image71
            Ken Burgessposted 2 months agoin reply to this

            Nah. The American people voted them in there to do just that.

            They are tired of an out of control government that does not respond to them.  They are tired of the taxation without representation.

            The federal government's spending has exceeded its revenue for several years, resulting in a growing deficit and national debt.

            In 2024, the government spent $1.83 trillion more than it collected in taxes and other revenues.  Thanks Dems.

            Its time to shave at least 2 Trillion dollars of waste and fraud from government spending.  Its time to start putting the people who allowed it, who became rich from it, in jail.

            Considering we now spend 1 Trillion on the interest on our debt alone, the cuts need to be deep... and quickly done.

            1. Willowarbor profile image60
              Willowarborposted 2 months agoin reply to this

              Trump won based on economic concerns... Primarily cost of living issues.   They aren't being addressed and he will suffer the same backlash.  Americans are not as loyal to party as some may want to believe, we are largely  a transactional people,  looking for others to meet our needs and casting them aside quickly when they don't. 

              Americans are interested in what affects them directly not this doge nonsense of which they'll never see a penny from. 

              People can clearly see that no evidence of fraud is being provided.  One only needs to look to the comments that pile up underneath each Elon and Doge post... The comments are increasingly hostile mixed in with a lot of desperation.  You know, the kind that regular folks who are struggling beg for help. 

              It won't be long until  we see "eat the rich"  trending again.

  2. Miebakagh57 profile image83
    Miebakagh57posted 2 months ago

    Does the whole thing seems to be done to confused?

  3. Miebakagh57 profile image83
    Miebakagh57posted 2 months ago

    I think that mistake of $8B is the issue? 8 million instead billion, is a small sum. Correction is made.

    1. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 2 months agoin reply to this

      Doge posted a a screenshot of what was supposed to be a contract.  The screenshot clearly showed the 8 million figure.  Doge then proceeded to claim that it was 8 billion.  They have since deleted that post.  They screwed up and are trying to save face.  One of their teen workers probably posted it and couldn't count the zeros correctly.

      They should have just told the truth instead of trying to cover it up

      1. Miebakagh57 profile image83
        Miebakagh57posted 2 months agoin reply to this

        Since its politics, it's hard for doge to owned up a mistake.

    2. Credence2 profile image82
      Credence2posted 2 months agoin reply to this

      Where is your arithmetic? There is a BIG difference between 8 million and 8 billion, ( 8,000 millions) it is not the kind of mistake that should be easily brushed off.

      1. Miebakagh57 profile image83
        Miebakagh57posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        I don't say it should be brush off. You're posting 8,000 (eight thousand millions). Why?

  4. GA Anderson profile image84
    GA Andersonposted 8 weeks ago

    ♫ Ba ba ba bad to the bone ♫
    https://hubstatic.com/17388125.jpg

    The devil made me do it.  ;-)

    GA

    1. abwilliams profile image75
      abwilliamsposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

      The gifted chainsaw was front and center during Elon's time on the CPAC stage. I am loving the electricity at CPAC this year! Kash Patel is in!! What a day... what a month!

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        Me too!

      2. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        Dark sunglasses inside and didn't utter a coherent sentence... Must have just gotten his dose of ketamine?

        1. abwilliams profile image75
          abwilliamsposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          Dark MAGA is getting under somebody's skin, it would appear!

          1. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            He is--- but I am loving watching the sheer discomfort some are having regarding Elon. It makes me chuckle. Hey Angie, we are getting all our fighters confirmed. Let's roll !

            1. abwilliams profile image75
              abwilliamsposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              Yes! I watched Kash Patel's swearing-in a little while ago. He is ready to get at it. Love it!

        2. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          That’s an unfortunate thing to say. It would be interesting to know what contributions you’ve made to humanity in comparison to Elon Musk. In my view, those who frequently make derogatory remarks about others may be struggling with their own self-esteem.

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            What does my life or it's contributions have to do with elon wearing sunglasses inside and unable to form a sentence?  And it's well known that he takes ketamine

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              "Dark sunglasses inside and didn't utter a coherent sentence... Must have just gotten his dose of ketamine?" Willow

              My point was that it's easy to criticize from the sidelines, but few people have made the kind of impact Musk has. As for the sunglasses and his speech, plenty of factors could be at play—fatigue, lighting, his natural way of speaking. Assuming it's always due to missing a dose of ketamine seems like a stretch.

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                Lol did folks not criticize, put Biden under a microscope in terms of every utterance? Every move? every mannerism?  Every single day?   What comes around goes around.  But really, Musk was incoherent.  Hard to ignore.

                Like I always say, live by the sword die by the sword.

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Biden, like Trump, has been scrutinized under a microscope. As his presidency progressed, it became easy to point out actions that negatively impacted the country. Serious problems arose quickly and continue to affect us today.

                  In contrast, I don’t see any serious problems caused by Trump so far—aside from some misleading statements. There’s nothing tangible yet. He hasn’t started any wars; in fact, he’s been working on getting us out of them. He’s handling the border well, focusing on deporting migrants with criminal records. He’s also pushing for fairer trade deals and exploring ways to save money, potentially helping to reduce the national debt.

                  Congress is currently working on his first bill, which will be interesting to watch. Overall, I see many positives and very few negatives in Trump’s first month. He’s following through on his promises. As someone who supports his "drain the swamp" agenda, I have no complaints so far.

                  1. Willowarbor profile image60
                    Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    "In contrast, I don’t see any serious problems caused by Trump so far—aside from some misleading statements."

                    Misleading? Trump is a liar.  He lies constantly and flagrantly.   

                    As far as the border, what are his stats? I have read from several sources that the deportations are below what we saw in the many months before he took office.  Also, he continues to use catch a release and we know that many of these people he's rounding up are not criminals. 

                    Fair trade deals lol? Tariffs are a tax on consumers that literally every credible economist believe are inflationary.   

                    The Republican proposed budget is a middle finger to working class Americans.   How easily some have forgotten those  promises that actually put this fool in office.   Luckily we are seeing many who have voters remorse speaking out loudly.   Who would have thought that getting a tax break for the wealthy off the backs of regular folks would be unpopular??

                    Lie or he just has no clue of what's going on??

                    "Medicare, Medicaid, none of that stuff is going to be touched," Trump told the Fox News host Sean Hannity in an interview that aired on Tuesday night.

                    And then...

                    "The House and Senate are doing a SPECTACULAR job of working together as one unified, and unbeatable, TEAM … unlike the Lindsey Graham version of the very important Legislation currently being discussed, the House Resolution implements my FULL America First Agenda, EVERYTHING, not just parts of it!” the president wrote. “We need both Chambers to pass the House Budget to ‘kickstart’ the Reconciliation process, and move all of our priorities to the concept of, ‘ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL.’ It will, without question, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

                    He is supporting the house bill that drastically cuts Medicaid.

  5. abwilliams profile image75
    abwilliamsposted 8 weeks ago

    Conservatives from other Nations on the CPAC stage, fired up for freedom, following the lead of the United States, is a sight to behold!

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

      Pretty great!

    2. Ken Burgess profile image71
      Ken Burgessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

      I like to think its those of humanity that prefer truth, facts, and reality.

      Conservative... just doesn't feel like it fits.... Gabbard, Musk, these were 'Liberals' you know, rational, capable, accomplished regular old liberals...

      The type of people who expose the corruption and fraud because they have the courage and commitment to try and make the world a better place...

      Good covers it better than Conservative...

      Good people sacrificing and risking everything to move America forward in the right direction, rather than selling it out for riches and power.

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        Very special individuals, they refuse to conform to anything that feels irrational.

        1. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          Irrational...corrupt...evil...

          They are in it and the Demons are coming for them.

          1. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            Yes, they will come for them, but "they" have lost much of their leverage and power. The media and the belligerents in Washington look more foolish by the day. I can't wait for 2026.

            Trump has built a team of doers, and it will be something to watch as the winds of change sweep through Washington. It’s already begun, though many citizens haven’t even realized it yet. Keep an eye on DOGE—they’re posting daily updates on savings and policy changes. The media isn’t covering it, and it’s clear why. They’re a powerhouse.

      2. abwilliams profile image75
        abwilliamsposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        Ken, Common Sense works as well, I get what you are saying, but CPAC is the Conservative Political Action Conference. It is the name, the conference, which individuals from other Nations are embracing, participating in, and introducing to their prospective Countries.
        Conservative isn't a bad word. Conservatism has never been our problem, it has been a lack of it.

        1. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          This goes well beyond common sense ...

          What is being exposed is trillions of dollars being stolen, given out to NGOs that defy our laws, that fund campaigns of the most anti-American persons to run for critical positions... that fund wars that slaughter millions...

          A media that covers for criminal and traitorous acts of politicians and powerful unelected officials that defy the President's orders and work to destroy Democracy and bypass the Constitution.

          This is a war for survival...
          Right vs Wrong
          Good vs Evil
          Order vs Chaos

          The Deep State and those feeding off the trillions being fed to them to support the corruption ....

          All...not some... All of the conspiracy theories are being proven true ...

          Worse... they were woefully optimistic in their outlook ...things are worse than anyone imagined.

          1. abwilliams profile image75
            abwilliamsposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            Oh no doubt! You are preaching to the choir.

  6. Miebakagh57 profile image83
    Miebakagh57posted 8 weeks ago

    Critizing a public person degoratory is common, and is not right. Why not contructively critized Elon Musk?

  7. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 8 weeks ago

    What in the actual dictator type  crap is this ??


    https://hubstatic.com/17390594_f1024.jpg

    What if they're out playing golf this weekend, you know, like Trump? 

    The comments on elon's post are BRUTAL

    1. wilderness profile image76
      wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

      Then, like Trump, they still completed at least 1 1/2 weeks of work, and he wants to know that.

  8. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 8 weeks ago

    Wow.   Who is supporting this? 


    https://hubstatic.com/17390617_f1024.jpg

    Instead of making a substantive argument against Democrats, he resorts to schoolyard insults. This isn’t leadership...it’s dehumanization. 
    This is all the "genius" has got?

    Making long forgotten slurs great again! What's next?   And when are the "words" going to matter to some of you??

    1. wilderness profile image76
      wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

      "Instead of making a substantive argument against Democrats, he resorts to schoolyard insults. This isn’t leadership...it’s dehumanization. "

      You can say this with a straight face after 8 years of calling Trump a plethora of names?  That it is all the left has - to call Trump names - is insufficient reason to do so.

      1. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

        So let me get this straight. You're saying it is okay fpr those in government, who represent our government to call citizens of this country retarded?   That's a good look for our country?

        1. wilderness profile image76
          wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          What is good for the goose is good for the gander.  An old adage which speaks volumes here, as does "Those that live in glass houses should not throw stones".

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            Gotcha.  Just waiting for the tik toks of little maga monsters calling their classmates retards.   What slur can maga bring back next?  The open use of the n word?

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              "Gotcha.  Just waiting for the tik toks of little maga monsters calling their classmates retards.   What slur can maga bring back next?  The open use of the n word?" Willow

              So calling Trump a fascist, a dictator, or even comparing him to Hitler is fine, but now you're suddenly concerned about offensive language? You can’t decry one kind of rhetoric while actively engaging in another. And now you’re aiming your ire at mere children, making wild accusations about 'MAGA monsters' as if they’re the real problem. If you truly oppose hateful speech, then start by holding your own side accountable. Otherwise, your outrage is nothing more than selective hypocrisy.

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                Let's be clear, are you defending the use of a slur? 

                Oh gosh tik tok... Why can't I use the word retard?!

                https://hubstatic.com/17391343_f1024.jpg

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Read my comment I did not defend Trump's language in any respect. I debated your comment, to point out hypocrisy.

                  1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                    Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    I made my point by debating your comment.  My context was simple and shared my view.

            2. wilderness profile image76
              wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              The ones used to defile Trump over the past 8 years should suffice.  Goodness knows there are enough of them!

              1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                Hypocrisy is on the loose this AM....

                1. wilderness profile image76
                  wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Par for the course, isn't it?  I'm used to it by now.

                  1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                    Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    Yes, me too...

              2. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                Why the deflection?  We're supposed to feel so much empathy for Trump if he's called a fascist or a dictator or an autocrat but we just need to overlook Elon calling people "retards". 

                It's not a great look for you guys.  You can't even admit that it's a slur. 

                LOL what has Elon or Trump been called over the years that are actual slurs?

                1. wilderness profile image76
                  wildernessposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Deflection?  A comment on the hypocrisy being shown is not just a deflection, for it says a lot about the speaker...and the relative worth of the opinions expressed.

                  1. Willowarbor profile image60
                    Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    You are deflecting as per usual.  Hypocrisy? That would be me using slurs and then complaining that Elon uses slurs.... Show me the hypocrisy.

                    "for it says a lot about the speaker.."

                    Sure does, because  I don't see any of you condemning elon's use of a slur....

          2. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            Some do not recognize a goose, let alone a gander.

            1. Willowarbor profile image60
              Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              Some apparently don't recognize a slur... Or just don't care.

              1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                You just referred to children of MAGA supporters MONSTERS. You insult mere strangers frequently. I find that distasteful. And you talk about Trump---LOL

                1. Willowarbor profile image60
                  Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Would it have been better if I used elon's term and called them maga "retards"?

                  1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                    Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    "Would it have been better if I used elon's term and called them maga "retards"?" Willow

                    I’d prefer you to use your own judgment rather than justifying your language by pointing to what others have said. Do you truly believe that when you use derogatory labels, it’s somehow different or more acceptable than when others do?  Perhaps you could explain why when you do this it is different than Trump, and know you have pulled in Musk... LOL

        2. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

          You seem quick to criticize Trump’s language, yet you ignore when Biden, Kamala Harris, Bernie Sanders, and even Hunter Biden have called him a fascist, a dictator, or compared him to Hitler. These are vile slurs that associate him with some of the worst figures in history. If rhetoric matters, then it should matter across the board—not just when it suits your narrative. Your view borders on hypocritical when you condemn one side while excusing the other

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

            This is a deflection.  Is it okay to call people retarded?   "Fascist" and "retarded" come with very different connotations.  Retard is a slur.  Calling a fascist a fascist Is descriptive...not a slur.

            There is no other use for the word retard other than to insult.

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

              .
              I did not deflect --- I did not defend Trump's language or excuse it in any respect...My context is clear.
              My comment ---You seem quick to criticize Trump’s language, yet you ignore when Biden, Kamala Harris, Bernie Sanders, and even Hunter Biden have called him a fascist, a dictator, or compared him to Hitler. These are vile slurs that associate him with some of the worst figures in history. If rhetoric matters, then it should matter across the board—not just when it suits your narrative. Your view borders on hypocritical when you condemn one side while excusing the other.

              You’re missing the point. If you’re going to argue about offensive language, then let’s be honest about the weight of words. Calling someone 'retarded' as an insult is undeniably offensive, but calling someone a 'fascist' or comparing them to Hitler carries an even greater historical and moral weight. 'Fascist' isn’t just descriptive—it directly links someone to authoritarian regimes responsible for the deaths of millions. You’re effectively calling Trump one of the worst mass murderers in history. That’s not just an insult; it’s an attempt to dehumanize and vilify on the highest level. So if you’re going to demand accountability for words, start by recognizing the gravity of your own."

              Words carry weight. You might notice that it’s mostly those who lean left on this forum who throw around insulting labels so easily. Meanwhile, users who lean right RARELY resort to nasty assumptions or defamatory labels when addressing strangers. To me, that speaks volumes about character.

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                This is condoning a slur.   

                "To me, that speaks volumes about character"

                What kind of character does one have to call someone a retard?   

                Fascism is a political ideology. What is a "retard"?  Please advise.

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                  What kind of person calls mere children 'MAGA monsters'? At this point, it’s clear you don’t grasp what I’ve pointed out. In reality, both you and Trump seem to throw around derogatory labels with ease. Maybe take a moment to read your own posts—while you condemn Trump’s language, you turn around and do the exact same thing. I’m walking away from this conversation because, frankly, I feel like I’m feeding into something free[py, unsettling.

                  1. Willowarbor profile image60
                    Willowarborposted 8 weeks agoin reply to this

                    Fascism is a political ideology. What is a "retard"?  Please advise.  One is a recognized line of political thought, the other is a slur.   Let's not act like they're equal.

                      I have never used a slur... Monsters or brats? They're interchangeable and certainly neither are slurs.  What parent hasn't called their kid a brat or a monster? Puh-leeze... Now if folks are using musk's term and calling their  kids "retards", that's a different story

  9. Miebakagh57 profile image83
    Miebakagh57posted 8 weeks ago

    I've been repeating 'God bless America' and some here are not geting it. Why?

  10. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 8 weeks ago

    The fact that maga can't condemn Elon for using a slur... There just is no line is there?

  11. tsmog profile image83
    tsmogposted 8 weeks ago

    A perspective . . .

    Americans Are Getting More Musk Than They Ordered by Statista (Feb 20, 2025)
    https://www.statista.com/chart/33979/pe … istration/


    https://cdn.statcdn.com/Infographic/images/normal/33979.jpeg


    Opening paragraph . . .

    "When Elon Musk started throwing his full weight, meaning his financial muscle and his social media reach, behind Donald Trump and his bid to return to the White House last year, it wasn’t entirely clear how big or open his influence would be in an eventual second Trump administration. One month into Trump’s second term, we can safely answer both of these questions with “very”."

    Concluding paragraph . . .

    "According to polling from YouGov and The Economist, many Americans think that Musk has a little too much influence on the Trump administration, as even Republicans feel like they’re getting more Musk than they ordered. According to this week’s results, 42 percent of Republicans think that Musk has a lot of influence within current administration, while just 32 percent actually want him to have a lot of influence. That’s down from 47 percent just after the November election, showing that Republicans have somewhat soured on Musk over the past few months. Unsurprisingly, the gap is a lot larger among Democrats, where 81 percent see Musk having a lot of influence versus just 5 percent who want him to have that kind of power."

  12. Credence2 profile image82
    Credence2posted 8 weeks ago

    How is it possible to be the richest man in the world and also be the dumbest, only in America is that possible.

    https://news.yahoo.com/government-agenc … 10552.html

    Musk and the DOGE with their outlandish requests on the Federal workforce have crossed the line into lunacy.

    Who has the conjones to call this clown out and say a resounding NO?

  13. Sharlee01 profile image86
    Sharlee01posted 8 weeks ago

    Tim,   Felix Richter’s piece highlights an interesting dynamic—Musk’s rapid push for efficiency is clashing with the reality of government institutions that aren’t built to move at Silicon Valley speed. While some conservatives might appreciate the effort to cut waste, the polling suggests that even Republicans are feeling some discomfort with just how much influence Musk wields.

    But perhaps the real issue isn’t just Musk or Trump—it’s whether Americans, as a whole, are even built for drastic change. We’ve grown accustomed to bureaucratic sprawl, slow-moving institutions, and the predictability that comes with them. Musk’s aggressive approach, while disruptive, might be running into a culture that has become complacent—resistant to sweeping reforms, even if they’re aimed at fixing inefficiencies. The question is: do we truly want things to change, or do we just like the idea of change until it starts affecting the status quo?

    But from my perspective, I’m liking what I see from Musk and DOGE so far. The federal government has long been bloated and inefficient, and it’s refreshing to see someone actually tackling waste head-on instead of just talking about it.

    1. abwilliams profile image75
      abwilliamsposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      Amen Shar, you and me both! It is about time!!

  14. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

    "Nearly 40% of the federal contracts that President Donald Trump’s administration claims to have canceled as part of its signature cost-cutting program aren’t expected to save the government any money, the administration’s own data shows."

    “It’s like confiscating used ammunition after it’s been shot when there’s nothing left in it. It doesn’t accomplish any policy objective,” said Charles Tiefer, a retired University of Baltimore law professor and expert on government contracting law. “Their terminating so many contracts pointlessly obviously doesn’t accomplish anything for saving money.”

    Some of the canceled contracts were for research studies that have been awarded, training that has taken place, software that has been purchased and interns who have come and gone. Dozens of them were for already-paid subscriptions to The Associated Press, Politico and other media services that the Republican administration said it would discontinue."

    Makes sense.  Doge thinks it can confuse people.   The "savings" are already water under the bridge.

    https://apnews.com/article/doge-federal … 89889db0df

    By the way, egg prices are up 4%!

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      I see you grasped the latest media hit piece. Maybe consider what they have saved putting the contract hit piece aside.  Tons of savings, and documented on DOGE.gov. I just put together a Thread on the subject.  You need to expand your reading and lean away from " Hey over here pieces. The contract BS is so weak. Just can't take the eye of the public off what DOGE is saving, and fixing. They are truly doing a great job, and very quick----

      1. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Doge hasn't documented anything?  Making accusations does not equate to documentation.  The public isn't buying it either, hence Republican Congress people taking a whole lot of heat

        "DOGE Claims It Has Saved Billions. See Where.
        A WSJ analysis of government data found that many claims of savings were overstated and ‘woke’ cuts were only a tiny fraction of the total"

        https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/elo … s-783b9507

  15. Ken Burgess profile image71
    Ken Burgessposted 7 weeks ago

    Fraud Risk Management:
    2018-2022 Data Show Federal Government Loses an Estimated $233 Billion to $521 Billion Annually to Fraud, Based on Various Risk Environments
    https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-24-105833

    More than $2 trillion in government ‘payment errors’ have cost taxpayers over the past two decades
    https://fortune.com/2023/04/18/payment- … -trillion/

    The U.S. Government Accountability Office, a nonpartisan Congressional agency, first published in March a report that estimated federal agencies had made $2.7 trillion worth of improper payments since fiscal year 2003.
    https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2 … er-federa/

    More Fraud Has Been Found in Federal COVID Funding—How Much Was Lost Under Unemployment Insurance Programs
    https://www.gao.gov/blog/more-fraud-has … e-programs

    Federal watchdogs still uncovering full scope of fraud in $5T COVID-19 spending
    https://federalnewsnetwork.com/agency-o … -spending/

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      DOGE is doing a great job, and the media needs to dig deep to try to get some to look away from the savings... Just not doing as well as they did,
      I say, with a smile.

  16. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

    Oh oh...

    Federal technology staffers resign rather than help Musk and DOGE..

    "A group of 21 civil servants with technology expertise resigned on Tuesday rather than help implement an array of changes to the federal government...

    "We will not use our skills as technologists to compromise core government systems, jeopardize Americans’ sensitive data, or dismantle critical public services,” the resigning group wrote in a letter addressed to Susie Wiles, Mr. Trump’s chief of staff. “We will not lend our expertise to carry out or legitimize DOGE’s actions.”.

    https://apnews.com/article/doge-elon-mu … 9510f2a43c

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      This reaction from the federal technology staffers raises an important question: Are they resigning out of genuine ethical concerns, or is this just bureaucratic resistance to change? It’s easy to frame this as a moral stand, but refusing to implement policy changes that expose waste, inefficiency, or potential fraud doesn’t come across as noble—it looks like an attempt to protect the status quo at all costs.

      Their letter claims they won’t compromise core government systems or jeopardize Americans’ data, but who exactly was asking them to do that? If Musk and DOGE were truly planning something unethical, where is the evidence? If these resignations were driven by real concerns, then transparency should be encouraged—show the public exactly what the issue is rather than making vague, dramatic exits. Otherwise, this just looks like another case of unelected bureaucrats deciding they know best, regardless of what leadership has been elected to do.

      Public servants are supposed to work for the American people, not dictate which policies they will or won’t support based on their personal preferences. If the systems they were overseeing are so fragile that simple oversight or efficiency improvements threaten to dismantle them, that alone is a serious indictment of how the government operates. If these resignations speed up much-needed reform, then maybe that’s not such a bad thing.

      1. Credence2 profile image82
        Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        As far as I am concerned, it is a bad thing
        ———
        “We swore to serve the American people and uphold our oath to the Constitution across presidential administrations,” the 21 staffers wrote in a joint resignation letter, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press. “However, it has become clear that we can no longer honor those commitments.”

        The employees also warned that many of those enlisted by Musk to help him slash the size of the federal government under President Donald Trump’s administration were political ideologues who did not have the necessary skills or experience for the task ahead of them.

        The mass resignation of engineers, data scientists, designers and product managers is a temporary setback for Musk and the Republican president’s tech-driven purge of the federal workforce. It comes amid a flurry of court challenges that have sought to stall, stop or unwind their efforts to fire or coerce thousands of government workers out of jobs.”
        ———
        So your opinion about the motives of those that resigned is simply right wing conjecture on your part? Has it ever crossed your mind that the resignations are authentic and based on principle?

  17. Willowarbor profile image60
    Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

    In the letter, the 21 employees laid out three specific grievances against DOGE and the White House.

    They claimed they were "subjected to 15-minute interviews by individuals wearing White House visitor badges" on Jan. 21, the day after Trump took office. The people "refused to identify themselves, asked questions about political loyalty, attempted to pit colleagues against each other, and demonstrated limited technical ability."

    Then, on Feb. 14, according to the employees, "one-third of our USDS colleagues were indiscriminately terminated by an anonymous email." The employees said those employees were working on services such as Social Security, tax filing and disaster relief, and "their removal endangers millions of Americans."

    DOGE representatives started "integrating us into their efforts" on Feb. 16, the employees said. "DOGE's actions — firing technical experts, mishandling sensitive data, and breaking critical systems — contradict their stated mission of 'modernizing Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity,'" the workers wrote in part.


    https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/doge/2 … rcna193622

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      Do you ever push away from articles that are bait pieces with no sources? The key "tell" is when there are no names or human beings that one can put a face to.  For instance

      A  PERSON familiar with the letter confirmed its authenticity to NBC News.

      The STAFFERS behind the joint letter DID NOT sign their names but listed their job titles, including “Engineer,” “Product Manager” and “Designer.” NBC News HAS NOT confirmed their identities. (do you see THE RED FLAGS?)

      "The news of the mass resignations was first reported by The Associated Press. Musk derided the article as "more fake news" in a post on X that also seemed to confirm the resignations.

      “These were Dem political holdovers who refused to return to the office,” Musk wrote. “They would have been fired had they not resigned.”

      In a separate post on X, DOGE employee Katie Miller appeared to mock the staffers who resigned, saying: “These were full remote workers who hung Trans flags from their workplaces.”

      In an interview, a former USDS employee who worked for the agency during the first Trump administration and under former President Barack Obama said they were not surprised by the mass resignations."

      The only names I see in the entire article were Musk and Katie Miller. Maybe next time look for facts backed up by humans. No real facts to be had in the article you posted other than Musk and Katie Miller. They stepped and were quoted.

      1. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Why would anyone sign their name to such with this vengeful bunch in the White House??

        1. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          "Why would anyone sign their name to such with this vengeful bunch in the White House??" Willow

          Integrity is a word that, in my opinion, many on the left don't truly live by. From what I've gathered over a lifetime, it's about being willing to stand up and say, "See me, hear what I have to say." If you can't put your name and face behind your words, they lose their meaning and truth. To me, it's about taking responsibility for what you say, rather than hiding behind anonymity or avoiding accountability.

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

            What is integrity have to do with fear of being attacked?  I think people with integrity don't lie either, like Musk Trump and so many others in their cabinet

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

              Where in that article did these so-called employees state they were frightened of being attacked? You liberals really go too far---with your mush mush

              Oh, how ridiculous— it doesn't seem like Musk or Kate Miller were afraid of being quoted. Get real. You're trying to suggest these employees were scared, but more likely, Musk simply said they were going to be fired, as he mentioned himself. You seem to live in a world where media fodder dictates your beliefs, and you seem to accept just about everything you read. I've pointed out many of the articles you share that lack proper sourcing or quotes. On my part, when fats are not presented, it is hard to have a sensible conversation. Maybe you need to stick with some here that hold your ideologies.

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                And these workers were discussing their negative experiences  with doge, you really think it would be unreasonable for them to  fear retribution or retaliation? Putting their names out there for the whole country to see, to find them, to torment them? Seems like basic common sense to me.  How many examples could I list here of people who have been doxed, swatted? Due to politically  charged commentary.

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                  "And these workers were discussing their negative experiences  with doge, you really think it would be unreasonable for them to  fear retribution or retaliation?" willow

                  Anyway, you are not interested in who in our government agencies need therapy, due to being fearful of the consequences of speaking their minds. MY comment was all about you posting articles that have little to no sources.

                  Oh my God--- know you read into what these people were thinking? Come on. What is common sense if one feels they have something to offer, they step up, and stand up for themselves. Are liberals so dumbed down they can't do that? Ya know what --- what ever.

                  1. Willowarbor profile image60
                    Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                    I think it would be incredibly stupid for anyone to put their name in the media attached with negative comments surrounding their experiences with Doge.

                    "MY comment was all about you posting articles that have little to no sources."

                    Yes and I clearly responded why I felt those sources were not named.  If absolutely anyone felt the need, they could sue for libel. 

                    I suppose they feel vindicated that they kept their names out of the press...

                    "In a separate post on X, DOGE employee Katie Miller appeared to mock the staffers who resigned, saying: “These were full remote workers who hung Trans flags from their workplaces.”

                    They were smeared regardless.  Just my opinion but there's a real ugly attitude,  vindictiveness and often hate that runs through much of maga

                    Why does it always have to come back to mocking, and always back to the trans issue... Just because they may or may not the trans or hung flags, what does it matter? Is this individual Katie Miller implying that they are not to be believed simply on that basis alone?

                    She seems to know clearly who they are

        2. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          Once again diversion. My comment was clearly concentrating on the article you posted. Which I assumed was the subject of your post.  ---and I repeat --- Do you ever push away from articles that are bait pieces with no sources? The key "tell" is when there are no names or human beings that one can put a face to.  For instance

          A  PERSON familiar with the letter confirmed its authenticity to NBC News.

          The STAFFERS behind the joint letter DID NOT sign their names but listed their job titles, including “Engineer,” “Product Manager” and “Designer.” NBC News HAS NOT confirmed their identities. (do you see THE RED FLAGS?)

  18. tsmog profile image83
    tsmogposted 7 weeks ago

    GOP senators vent Musk frustrations at closed-door meeting published by The Hill (Feb 27,2025)
    https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/516 … o8EB63zIGw

    "Republican senators vented their concerns about tech billionaire Elon Musk’s aggressive approach to freezing federal spending and cutting government jobs during a private meeting with White House chief of staff Susie Wiles on Wednesday."

    A little further along arrives . . .

    "Every day’s another surprise,” Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) said of the daily bombshells from Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    “It would be better to allow Cabinet secretaries to carefully review their departments and then make surgical, strategic decisions on what programs and people should be cut and then come back to Congress for approval,” she said.

    Collins argued a methodical approach to reforming government would be better than what she called Musk’s “sledgehammer approach.”

    Approaching the end of the article comes . . .

    "Tillis said Musk and DOGE should serve as advisers to Trump’s Cabinet officials instead of taking the lead on major policy decisions themselves.

    “We’re talking about governmental entities, a lot of complexity. That’s why I believe that DOGE will most likely morph into being an adviser to these Senate-confirmed heads of agencies fairly soon,” he said. “Otherwise, I just have a real problem.

    “If I get confirmed as the head of an agency, a Cabinet-level position, [and] I’ve got somebody else that is pretending — or that is acting as my boss, that’s a real problem,” he added. “At the end of the day, you’ve got to have all those employees thinking that you’re looking out for the agencies and their best interests.”

    Tillis said that if Trump’s Cabinet officials “want to be viewed as the heads of these agencies,” they need to balance Musk’s recommendations to cut staff with their missions to provide services and advance U.S. interests."

    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      Trump made it clear during his campaign that he wanted to shrink government, so I’m not surprised his administration is moving aggressively to do so. A lot of people may not have believed he would follow through at this scale, but he’s proving otherwise.

      The media focusing on minor website errors or small missteps feels like a distraction from the bigger picture of what the DOGE is trying to accomplish. Cutting bloated staffing and non-essential spending is exactly what I wanted to see, but I can understand why some on the right are uneasy with the pace. It’s one thing to call for smaller government and another to watch people actually lose their jobs.

      I also think transparency is key. If the DOE is making information available, people should take the time to review it for themselves instead of relying on media spin. I’ve wanted serious government reform for decades, and I’m fully on board with this effort. Whether it ultimately succeeds or backfires will be on Trump, but so far, I like what I’m seeing.

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        The media's job is to erode public trust in Musk, DOGE, Trump, etc.

        The media works on behalf of the corruption, the 'deep state'... the media works to misinform the American public... whether they are lying about what the Administration is doing or lying about why we are in a war in Ukraine or at war with Iran or who-ever... the media is nothing more than the talking heads for the worst elements in control of our government.

        The media is the enemy of the American people... they protect the elites, Big Pharma, etc... they march goose step in tune to the ideology, there is no journalism or investigative reporting unless it is in an attempt to disparage those who are working to keep America a sovereign nation beholden to the People... not the global elites.

        1. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          Ken --  I completely agree. The media’s primary goal seems to be eroding public trust in people like Musk, the DOGE, and Trump because they threaten the established order. They don’t serve the public; they serve the deep state, the corrupt elites, and the institutions that benefit from keeping Americans misinformed. Whether it’s lying about what the administration is actually doing, pushing false narratives about our involvement in Ukraine and Iran, or protecting the interests of Big Pharma and global elites, the media has proven itself to be nothing more than a propaganda machine.

          There is no real journalism anymore—only coordinated attacks against those who challenge the status quo. They don’t investigate corruption unless it benefits their agenda. Meanwhile, they work overtime to destroy anyone fighting for America’s sovereignty and the interests of its citizens. The media is not a watchdog for the people; it’s a weapon used against them.

          And it is apparent that the left-wing media still holds some influence over hard-to-reach types—those suffering from incurable TDS. No matter how much evidence is laid out, they remain blind to the truth, clinging to the narratives spoon-fed to them by the very institutions working against their interests. The media knows exactly how to manipulate these people, keeping them locked in a cycle of outrage and misinformation. It’s frustrating to watch, but at the same time, it just proves how deeply embedded the propaganda machine is.

      2. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        The actions of musk are haphazard, reckless and without regard to consequence.  The idea that he is transparent is laughable in terms of the postings on his media which are absolutely void of detail.  Smoke and mirrors versus what a real audit  it looks like. And he has been caught lying many times already... Or if you prefer, just "misleading" with his incompetence.  How long will Americans buy the ridiculous idea that a cabinet full of billionaires has their back?

        1. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          That’s your view—I disagree. The only real smoke and mirrors are coming from articles like the one you just posted. The DOGE is being completely transparent, and that’s exactly what’s upsetting people. They’re posting updates almost daily, laying out exactly what they’re finding and doing. Maybe some just don’t want to face the reality of it, but the DOGE is carrying out the job they were hired to do. And honestly, I find it pretty entertaining to watch what they uncover and how much squirming it’s causing.  I am really so pleased to see Trump making every effort to do just what he said he would do, and so quickly --- Drain the swamp.

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

            Most of what they're "uncovering", analysis shows up to 40% of it isn't saving anything at all.  Sadly they think most Americans aren't smart enough to understand what they're looking at... In the end it really doesn't matter. Musk and his minions are simply providing a distraction for the main course... They're coming after the real meat of the budget.   The Doge efforts are mere nonsense.  Medicare, medicaid, social security that's where it's at.  All hell is about to break loose because there are a whole lot of magas on assistance who just wanted all the other crap Trump promised.  You know, eggs?

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

              Disagree, and not worth ruminating on.

    2. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      Collins of Maine
      “It would be better to allow Cabinet secretaries to carefully review their departments and then make surgical, strategic decisions on what programs and people should be cut and then come back to Congress for approval,” she said.

      She identified a really troubling issue. The fact that Congress has been increasingly sidelined by musk /trump.  They are really attempting to concentrate power in the executive branch.  It looks and feels a lot like we are moving into a dictatorship, an oligarchy?

  19. Credence2 profile image82
    Credence2posted 7 weeks ago

    It is as I have always said, Musk is a JERK

    https://news.yahoo.com/elon-musk-melts- … 56431.html

    1. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

      a prime example of why Musk (and Trump) belong nowhere near government. We learn in the early years of our education that there are three EQUAL branches of government in this country, not one really important branch and two subservient branches that have to do whatever the main branch says needs to be done.

      Maybe send Musk to an American middle school for a refresher, because he obviously didn't get that in his education.

  20. Kathleen Cochran profile image71
    Kathleen Cochranposted 7 weeks ago

    Has it occurred to anyone that Trump and Musk are destroying our ability to function effectively so Russia can take over America?

    Sounds farfetched?

    1. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

      DOGE PROGRESS UPDATE...

      Labs hit pause...
      Hundreds of studies are at a standstill, including ones on pancreatic cancer, brain injuries and child health. Last week alone, the N.I.H. canceled 42 of 47 scheduled meetings to assess new grants. Some examples of stalled projects:

      For years, Steffanie Strathdee at the University of California San Diego has followed drug users to research overdoses, which kill some 100,000 people in the United States each year. Her investigation of H.I.V. infections in that group was ready to begin — but came to an abrupt halt when the N.I.H. canceled a review panel meeting this month. “Everything is absolutely frozen,” she told me. “It’ll just sit there, hanging in limbo.”

      Anthony Richardson at the University of Pittsburgh was expecting a review panel to weigh a grant application of his on staph infections in people with diabetes, a disease that afflicts more than one-tenth of Americans. It never happened. “I am not 100 percent sure what their motives are,” he said.

      In response to all the uncertainty, universities are retrenching. The University of Pittsburgh froze Ph.D. admissions. Columbia University’s medical school paused hiring and spending. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology froze the hiring of nonfaculty employees.

      Some lab leaders told me they were making contingency plans to fire scientists.

      Sounds a bit like brain drain?   Oh well! 

      Good news? We're bringing back measles!!

      https://www.gastroenterologyadvisor.com … istration/

    2. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

      Elon and the musketeers have been busy!

      The Department of Veterans Affairs has fired 1,400 staff after its first round of layoff terminated 1,000 employees on February 13,.  Great news? It gets even better...

      They fired people  people who worked on the Veterans Crisis Line  according  to  Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, who was advocating for their reinstatement along with Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. 

      These were  critical employees combatting veteran suicide working at the Veterans Crisis Line ... Sounds pretty important. Hopefully they got them back...

      Speaking of getting folks back, did they ever find those people they fired from the nuclear program? From the USDA that we're working on bird flu? Oh well...
      https://hubstatic.com/17397226_f1024.jpg


      https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/pre … rans-first

      1. Credence2 profile image82
        Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        I have read several articles that criticizes Musk for using a chain saw when a scalpel would be more appropriate.

        He behaves without any discernment in regard to the jobs cut and how they will affect the tax paying citizens and services that people have come to expect. Slash and burn is not a professional way to cul government agencies for waste, fraud and abuse. I still want my social security check delivered on time, which is not catagorized among any of those things.

      2. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        DOGE does not fire anyone, that would be up to heads of agencies. DOGE suggests to let someone go for a logical reason.

    3. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

      Don't look now but Elon is trying  to get Verizon's FAA contract canceled... so that he can give the $2.4 BILLION contract to his Starlink company

      Oligarchy? Musk raiding the U.S. treasury for his own personal/business gains? Shouldn’t Congress review this deal?

      But musk and trump REPEATEDLY said that if there was a conflict of interest, musk would recuse himself.
      Oh well... I guess you can't pass up an opportunity to enrich yourself further. Cuts for thee but not for me...

      https://www.newsweek.com/faa-elon-musk-starlink-2036497

      1. Credence2 profile image82
        Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        I just knew it about Musk, Willow.

        That greedy bastard, Trump must believe that we are all fools? Yes, there is a major conflict of interest and yet who is challenging Musk's role?

        Thanks for bringing this article to our attention.

        1. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          The partnership between Elon Musk's SpaceX and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to upgrade the air traffic communications system could be highly beneficial for the government, primarily due to the cutting-edge technology that Starlink offers. The Starlink network, with its constellation of satellites, is uniquely positioned to provide fast, reliable internet access to remote and underserved areas, including airspace. This capability is crucial for improving air traffic control communications, especially in regions where traditional terrestrial communication infrastructure is limited or unavailable. At the time of this agreement, Starlink is one of the few companies with the resources, infrastructure, and expertise to provide such a service at scale, making them the ideal candidate for this initiative. Additionally, by integrating Starlink's technology into the FAA's systems, the government stands to enhance safety, efficiency, and connectivity in air travel, which could ultimately benefit both the aviation industry and national security. Given the importance of real-time, global communication in modern air traffic management, Musk's SpaceX is likely the only entity at this time with the capacity to meet such a complex need effectively.

          1. Credence2 profile image82
            Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

            I do not question the capability of Musk services. I question whether he in his DOGE role should really be involved in cutting resources within federal agencies? Why should I believe that  he is not going to take his chainsaw to anything related to his contracts? Has he spoken about recusing himself?

            All I see, and you mentioned this, that he has held his blade away from the military and customs, are we to assume that there is no waste to be found there? Sound like the cuts are partisan and ideologically based, attacking social programs while leaving the GOP's sacred cows unscathed. So, Trump and the GOP are being selective about the cuts while having us believe they are across the board?

            Regardless of Musk's capabilities, the procurement process, proposals and bids, must be negotiated impartially and those that are in a position to influence the process to his or her own advantage must recuse him or herself.

            Why would I believe that this principle should not apply to Musk?

            1. Sharlee01 profile image86
              Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

              First, let me remind you no deal has been made, and we don't know if a deal will be reached. So speculation is all we have.

              As of February 28, 2025, no country has fully integrated SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service into their air traffic control (ATC) systems. However, the United States is actively exploring this possibility.

              This situation is unique and requires careful consideration. Elon Musk conducts business in numerous countries worldwide through ventures like Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink. For instance, Tesla operates Gigafactories in China and Germany, with plans for one in Mexico. Starlink provides internet services in over 60 countries, including Japan and the Philippines. Musk has also engaged with political leaders from at least 13 different nations.

              Given Musk's global influence, dismissing him and Starlink due to a vendetta seems illogical and unsound. While concerns about conflicts of interest are understandable, Musk has demonstrated humanitarian efforts on several occasions. For instance, he has pledged significant funds to various causes, including a $100 million prize for carbon removal technologies.

              It's important not to act against our own interests out of spite. Musk's ventures have the potential to advance technology and benefit humanity. Embracing his initiatives could yield substantial advantages. Are emotions clouding your judgment?

              Elon Musk's complete departure from the United States would have significant economic and strategic repercussions, impacting employment, tax revenues, national security, and the nation's leadership in technological innovation. Such a move would deliver a substantial shock to the economy. In an interview, his mother, Maye Musk, mentioned that she and Elon have resided in the U.S. for 22 years. She noted that Elon has previously considered leaving, expressing concerns that the country no longer aligns with his vision. Maye emphasized that once Elon makes a decision, he acts swiftly, often overnight. It's crucial to recognize the value of innovators like Elon and ensure they feel encouraged to stay, rather than being driven away. I can understand that many would be green with envy, but we need to keep, in my view cooler heads

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                You seem to assume for some reason that the starlink system is more appropriate than what Verizon is doing or offering.   And who should be the one to decide that? There are conflicts of interest with everything that he is doing. He never should have been placed in the role he is in.  His philanthropy is inconsequential to me. The man is a self avowed ketamine user who posts and repost the craziest crap on X.  He really has a very little credibility

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                  "You seem to assume for some reason that the starlink system is more appropriate than what Verizon is doing or offering.   And who should be the one to decide that?" Willow

                  I don't assume that Starlink would be more successful than Verizon—that's the FAA's call. Not sure if you did any research before firing off your comment.

                  Note this issue was in the works under Biden's administration, started in 2023, and has been ongoing.

                  In 2023, the government’s shift away from Verizon in favor of Starlink seems to be driven by several factors related to performance, reliability, and the push for modernization. One major concern has been the communication reliability issues with Verizon’s current system, which has been criticized for being OUTDATED and prone to PROBLEMS, especially in remote areas like Alaska. This led the FAA TO EXPLORE alternatives, as the system’s reliability is crucial in areas where traditional infrastructure struggles to provide consistent service. I believe Starlink, with its satellite-based technology, offers a solution to this problem. It provides more reliable coverage, especially in hard-to-reach regions, which is important for modernizing air traffic control systems and improving safety.

                  Another factor could be cost and efficiency. It seems that Starlink’s satellite service might offer a MORE COST-effective solution for the FAA, which is focused on upgrading infrastructure without putting excessive strain on taxpayers. Starlink’s technology promises high-speed communication without the need for the physical infrastructure that Verizon’s system depends on, which could make it a more efficient option in the long run. Lastly, this shift to Starlink aligns with the FAA’s broader goal of modernizing its systems. The agency has been moving away from outdated technologies and looking for new ways to improve air traffic control. Given the promise of Starlink’s satellite technology, I can understand why it would fit into this vision of upgrading critical infrastructure to meet the demands of the future.

                  These efforts have been ongoing since the Biden administration, with discussions and tests involving Starlink starting under their leadership. The FAA’s push to modernize and upgrade its communication systems, including considering satellite options like Starlink, aligns with the broader infrastructure improvement initiatives that the administration has supported. Testing of Starlink terminals began in remote areas in 2023, and the public focus on this shift has grown over the past year. While the Biden administration has overseen these developments, the process has been gradual, involving continuous evaluations and deliberations on how to best modernize air traffic communications.

                  Not sure how you can sit in judgment over such a successful human being.Shares a lot about your character. Your bias is quite apparent.

                  1. Willowarbor profile image60
                    Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                    "The FAA’s push to modernize and upgrade its communication systems, including considering satellite options like Starlink, aligns with the broader infrastructure improvement initiatives that the administration has supported. "

                    Says who? There's absolutely no transparency on any of this??

                    I stated the facts about musk. It's not really judgment. It's what he openly portrays.  Sorry, I don't equate success with being a stellar person.  They're a lot of  rich successful POS out there.  Money doesn't equate to character.

                    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                      "You seem to assume for some reason that the starlink system is more appropriate than what Verizon is doing or offering.   And who should be the one to decide that?" Willow

                      I don't assume that Starlink would be more successful than Verizon—that's the FAA's call. Not sure if you did any research before firing off your comment.

                      Note this issue was in the works under Biden's administration, started in 2023, and has been ongoing.

                      In 2023, the government’s shift away from Verizon in favor of Starlink seems to be driven by several factors related to performance, reliability, and the push for modernization. One major concern has been the communication reliability issues with Verizon’s current system, which has been criticized for being OUTDATED and prone to PROBLEMS, especially in remote areas like Alaska. This led the FAA TO EXPLORE alternatives, as the system’s reliability is crucial in areas where traditional infrastructure struggles to provide consistent service. I believe Starlink, with its satellite-based technology, offers a solution to this problem. It provides more reliable coverage, especially in hard-to-reach regions, which is important for modernizing air traffic control systems and improving safety.

                      Another factor could be cost and efficiency. It seems that Starlink’s satellite service might offer a MORE COST-effective solution for the FAA, which is focused on upgrading infrastructure without putting excessive strain on taxpayers. Starlink’s technology promises high-speed communication without the need for the physical infrastructure that Verizon’s system depends on, which could make it a more efficient option in the long run. Lastly, this shift to Starlink aligns with the FAA’s broader goal of modernizing its systems. The agency has been moving away from outdated technologies and looking for new ways to improve air traffic control. Given the promise of Starlink’s satellite technology, I can understand why it would fit into this vision of upgrading critical infrastructure to meet the demands of the future.

                      These efforts have been ongoing since the Biden administration, with discussions and tests involving Starlink starting under their leadership. The FAA’s push to modernize and upgrade its communication systems, including considering satellite options like Starlink, aligns with the broader infrastructure improvement initiatives that the administration has supported. Testing of Starlink terminals began in remote areas in 2023, and the public focus on this shift has grown over the past year. While the Biden administration has overseen these developments, the process has been gradual, involving continuous evaluations and deliberations on how to best modernize air traffic communications.

                      Not sure how you can sit in judgment over such a successful human being.Shares a lot about your character. Your bias is quite apparent.

              2. Credence2 profile image82
                Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                Well, I am going to disagree, and it is not emotional but factual. You conservatives may believe that Musk walks on water, but I say that giving any one man so broad an access to the American economy from both sides of the table is dangerous and unprecedented.

                I don't care what his "mother" says. No one says that he has to withdraw from providing his services, but he should not also be in the position to control government procurement with his cuts and trimming. He needs to stay on "his side" of the table as a vendor.

                I want the  conflict of interest provisions followed and Musk is not to be an exception solely because he is a wealthy oligarch.

                I am going to hold this against Trump and wait until the courts hold him accountable for this incursion.

                1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                  Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                  I just wrote a lengthy comment to Willow. The conversations with Musk to do a deal was started under Biden by our own FAA. Please, you guys do just a little research before wringing your hands ---- no deal has been done. We have no idea if a deal will be done. Perhaps not due to a conflict of interest --- TOO BAD FOR US--- OMG --- I would say. This deal could make our skies safer, and cost less. I must laugh. this would have gone down as a Biden accomplishment.  But you hold this against Musk, you just do that. LOL Come on stop ranting and do some research on the issue before hanging up Musk by the B--ls

                  1. Credence2 profile image82
                    Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                    PErhaps, but Biden has never authorized a DOGE type organization while negotiations were discussed with Musk as a vendor. THAT is the difference.

                    No deal has been done and it better not be contemplated either....

                    1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                      Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

                      You're diverting the conversation to Biden. As I’ve said, no deal has been made, and in my view, it’s the U.S. that stands to lose if it falls through. The deal was going to be more efficient, cost less, and potentially save lives. Unfortunately, some just can't grasp the importance of such a valuable piece of technology. Sorry if that sounds harsh, but this isn't directed at you. The time for placating is long over when ideologies lack any common sense. I mean, how much more foolish would our FAA look if they backed away from a deal that could truly put our nation far ahead in this area of technology?

                      And yes, perhaps your point is relevant—Biden wouldn’t have gone through with this deal. But I must laugh; we could all just stand on a bubble of arrogance, without noses.

      2. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        The partnership between Elon Musk's SpaceX and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to upgrade the air traffic communications system could be highly beneficial for the government, primarily due to the cutting-edge technology that Starlink offers. The Starlink network, with its constellation of satellites, is uniquely positioned to provide fast, reliable internet access to remote and underserved areas, including airspace. This capability is crucial for improving air traffic control communications, especially in regions where traditional terrestrial communication infrastructure is limited or unavailable. At the time of this agreement, Starlink is one of the few companies with the resources, infrastructure, and expertise to provide such a service at scale, making them the ideal candidate for this initiative. Additionally, by integrating Starlink's technology into the FAA's systems, the government stands to enhance safety, efficiency, and connectivity in air travel, which could ultimately benefit both the aviation industry and national security. Given the importance of real-time, global communication in modern air traffic management, Musk's SpaceX is likely the only entity at this time with the capacity to meet such a complex need effectively. No one as of yet has this technology. So we need not cut off our noses to spite our faces.

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          Musk this week criticized the FAA's air traffic control network, writing on X that the "Verizon system is not working and so is putting air travelers at serious risk."

          Verizon spokesperson Kevin Israel told CBS News that the technology Musk is referring to are the legacy systems run by defense contractor company L3Harris, not by Verizon.

          "Our company is working on building the next generation system for the FAA which will support the agency's mission for safe and secure air travel," he said. "We are at the beginning of a multiyear contract to replace antiquated, legacy systems. Our teams have been working with the FAA's technology teams and our solution stands ready to be deployed. We continue to partner with the FAA on achieving its modernization objectives."

          Musk repeatedly stated that he would recuse himself from conflicts of interest. But yet he is making comments, right in the thick of it. 

          Your post makes a lot of assumptions as to starlink being more beneficial than Verizon's offerings.  No one has provided that evidence?

          The bigger question, is it not in poor form/judgement  to put someone benefiting from government contracts in the position of "head of Doge"?  it seems like we've entirely scrapped the idea of conflict of interest.  At this point. Someone should take a time machine and tell Carter to keep his peanut farm I guess LOL

          "There’s very limited transparency,” said Jessica Tillipman, a contracting law expert at George Washington University. Referring to Musk, she said: “Without that transparency, we have no idea how much non-public information he has access to or what role he’s playing in what contracts are being awarded.”

          Shouldn't Musk must divest from companies doing business with the government or stay away from the federal agencies that hire them?

          https://www.cbsnews.com/news/starlink-f … -interest/

      3. IslandBites profile image70
        IslandBitesposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Cause there's no conflict enough already, right?

      4. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Again a misleading article -- no deal has even been made. No real source that can truly prove anything in the article. Here is an article that shows a source, name with a face that will stand behind the report.

        "Biden aide admits administration was ‘gaslighting’ Americans by covering up alarm at his age and health
        NY Post
        Emily Crane
        February 28, 2025 at 5:09 AM

        A senior aide for former President Joe Biden has admitted the administration was “gaslighting” Americans when it repeatedly dismissed growing concerns about the oldest-ever president’s age and ability.

        Michael LaRosa, a former White House aide and longtime press secretary for first lady Jill Biden, admitted that the campaign was aware from “day one” that the 81-year-old’s age was an issue — and aides were “scared to death” of letting him do off-the-cuff interviews ahead of the election, Puck reported.

        “Cover-up to me is a little hard, a little harsh. Every politician, everybody, every human being tries to cover up age. We were always, from day one, cognizant that age was an issue,” LaRosa said Wednesday at a Science Institute at American University seminar."  “There are some things that are true, I mean, like the gaslighting. There was a lot of denial of the polling. And I will use the term gaslighting because that’s what they were doing, the campaign, former colleagues. The message to everybody was to make sure that you tell people it’s too early.”

        Biden was dogged by countless negative polls in the lead-up to Election Day amid widespread fears that his ever-increasing verbal gaffes, moments of confusion and physical stumbles were signs of advanced aging and cognitive decline.

        The White House, at the time, repeatedly insisted that he was in good health. But behind the scenes, the Biden campaign was terrified of letting him fly solo, according to LaRosa.

        “The president’s team was scared to death of impromptu, unscripted, unrehearsed, unpracticed, unchoreographed, anything, they couldn’t compete for the attention economy,” he said.

        “They just couldn’t do it. They didn’t have any idea. And they didn’t have the vessel either in Biden, by the way, who would have done anything. He loves TV. He loves doing stuff. It was the orbit that did not trust their own candidate.

        “Biden needed the press. When he needed them the most, they didn’t trust him, they gave him the back foot of the doubt and they put their foot on the gas and never took it off. And he was politically dead.”

        Mounting pressure over his mental decline and dismal polling ultimately led Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race and endorse his then-vice president Kamala Harris.

        The former aide made the admissions when asked by the host, Puck journalist Tara Palmeri, about a new book CNN’s Jake Tapper co-authored that details the lengths to which the Biden administration and its allies went in a “cover-up” of his mental decline.

        Tapper, for his part, has been blasted on social media given that the CNN anchor repeatedly dismissed concerns about the then-president’s age during the campaign.

        This form of report should truly upset everyone in our nation.

    4. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 7 weeks ago

      What is being said about this and that of DOGE run by Musk. The latest NPR / kpbs article is

      DOGE's savings page fixed old mistakes — and added new ones by NPR / kpbs (Mar 1, 2025)
      https://www.npr.org/2025/03/01/nx-s1-53 … musk-trump

      "Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has made more inflated savings claims on its digital "wall of receipts."

      Tuesday's update to the federal website included inaccurate data, according to an NPR review, even as the group corrected prior errors."

      Read about the

      ** The New Numbers
      ** DOGE deletes past mistakes
      ** Evaluating an updated batch of DOGE savings claims (Graphic flow chart)
      ** New data added, similar misleading math
      ** DOGE data woes
      ** Savings are dwarfed by what Congress is considering

      "Even if taken at face value, DOGE's claims of savings amount to less than 1% of what the federal government spent in the last fiscal year, and dwarfs the proposed $2 trillion in spending cuts in the GOP-led House framework approved Tuesday night — or the proposed $4 trillion increase to the nation's debt limit."

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Have you been following the simple, clear posts on DOGE.gov? I’ve noticed two mistakes that were quickly corrected, and I appreciate how they were addressed. I respect articles, but I have to ask—do you feel lies are being posted on their website? I’ve been following their posts daily, and it seems to me they’re finding ways to save funds. I also like that some computer systems are being updated to be more efficient. It’s clear to me that the media often ignores the good and instead focuses on two typos that were made—typos that were corrected weeks ago.

        The latest NPR/KBPS article on DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), particularly its coverage of the "wall of receipts" and the savings claims associated with Elon Musk’s initiative, raises several valid concerns. However, the article’s framing seems to dismiss a lot of the effort behind the program, focusing instead on isolated errors and comparing the savings to far more significant government expenditures. It’s worth considering that mistakes happen during the process of correcting inefficiencies that have existed for decades, and the fact that DOGE is trying to tackle such inefficiencies should be appreciated, not ignored. Yes, there have been inaccuracies, but these are being corrected promptly—a sign of transparency and a genuine attempt to improve. The idea that the savings claimed by DOGE are insignificant compared to the federal budget and the proposed cuts in Congress is misleading. The focus should be on the long-term impact. Even small savings, if consistently implemented, can lead to major improvements and reductions in government waste over time.

        The comparison of DOGE's savings to proposed budget cuts or debt increases feels more like an attempt to downplay the positive strides being made, rather than critically evaluating the initiative's actual effectiveness. The comparison seems unfair and misses the point that DOGE’s savings, though smaller in scope, represent real changes happening now, while the GOP-led budget cuts are projections of cuts that may or may not come to fruition. More importantly, this constant scrutiny of minor errors is distracting from the much bigger conversation about reforming government efficiency. It’s clear to me that the media is focused more on sensationalizing mistakes rather than appreciating the fact that DOGE, under Musk's leadership, is trying to improve a system that has long been known for its inefficiency and lack of accountability. While DOGE may not be perfect, it’s taking steps that could have a meaningful, positive impact, and the media should recognize that progress instead of solely focusing on small setbacks.

        I have not seen the new bill, only heard some reports on what MAY be in it. Have you seen the bill?

    5. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 7 weeks ago

      Oh my, what has maga gotten us into now? A little foreshadowing of what may come for social security...

      Elon Musk Calls Social Security 'The Biggest Ponzi Scheme Of All Time'

      Here is his word salad on Joe Rogan... Lucky he was only talking to Rogan. 

      https://x.com/OWS1892/status/1895903504 … 364f4586a3

    6. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 7 weeks ago

      hmmm . . . wise investment advice has always said to diversify. Musk is taking that advice it appears . . .

      Elon Musk’s quest for power has a new target: Wisconsin’s supreme court by The Guardian (Mar 2, 2025)
      https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/202 … -wisconsin

      Or pick and choose from Google landing page
      https://www.google.com/search?client=fi … judge+race

      "He is slashing US government agencies, building electric vehicles and space rockets and running one of the world’s biggest social media platforms. But Elon Musk has still found time – and money – to meddle in a relatively obscure election in a state of 6 million people.

      The close ally of Donald Trump is spending millions of dollars in an effort to tip the scales in favor of a Republican candidate running for a seat on the highest court in Wisconsin. Critics regard it as a statement of intent by Musk to expand his political power in America by playing an insidious role in key races across the country.

      “It’s one of the most significant threats to our democracy in the current moment,” said Larry Jacobs, director of the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota. “You’ve got money and power in one person who’s been given access to the upper echelon of the federal government. He’s fused the power of the Oval Office with his almost unlimited amount of money to support Republicans, both at the state level and national level.”

      Conflict of interest pops into my mind, though I confess I am no expert. Thank God! I wouldn't want that responsibility on my head.

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        I am just headed for the otherside of the coin---

        While I understand the concern about Musk’s involvement in political races, I don’t necessarily see it as a threat to democracy. The idea of “diversifying” one’s interests, both in business and politics, is part of the broader concept of freedom—something that has long been a part of the American system. Musk, much like any other wealthy individual or corporation, has every right to invest his resources in causes or candidates that align with his values. Critics who label this as an “insidious role” seem to forget that individuals have historically used their influence, money, and power to sway elections. The key issue here is whether Musk’s contributions are transparent and legal—not necessarily the fact that he has the ability to make such contributions.

        Moreover, the idea that one person’s wealth gives them a disproportionate amount of power isn’t new. The U.S. political system has always been susceptible to financial influence, and Musk is no different from any other business magnate who has used their wealth for political gain. For Musk, his backing of Republican candidates may simply be about preserving policies that align with his businesses and the broader goals of innovation and market freedom. There’s also a bit of irony in the criticism, considering how many other individuals and corporations have spent significant amounts of money in elections over the years, yet their influence tends not to get the same level of scrutiny. If anything, Musk’s political involvement is a reflection of his personal beliefs and how he sees the world, which, in a democratic society, is his prerogative. As for potential conflicts of interest, that’s an issue for regulators to address—if there’s wrongdoing, it should be dealt with according to the law. But as it stands, I don’t think Musk’s actions are a direct assault on democracy.

      2. Credence2 profile image82
        Credence2posted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

        Wel, Tsmog, I do consider Musk a nosy threat to democracy in Wisconsin. I will not abide with idea that just because you have the money, you can exert in ordinate influence in the political process. Some people never learn that certain concepts and principles are not for sale at any price.

        With his multi million dollar government contracts, do you really think that he is going to use his government post in an impartial manner? They are all in it for the money, to enrich themselves at our expense.

        “It’s one of the most significant threats to our democracy in the current moment,” said Larry Jacobs, director of the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota. “You’ve got money and power in one person who’s been given access to the upper echelon of the federal government. He’s fused the power of the Oval Office with his almost unlimited amount of money to support Republicans, both at the state level and national level.”

        Spot on…. And that is what differentiates him from wealthy plutocrats of the past.

        You don’t have to be an expert, I can clearly see conflict of interest matters front and center. And the Right is quite ignorant if they believe that this can go under the radar screen.

        Having the political system up for sale is something our politicians should be standing against to their greatest ability, but for certain Rightwing beasts it’s just business as usual.

        That applies to “both sides” by the way.

        1. wilderness profile image76
          wildernessposted 7 weeks agoin reply to this

          "I will not abide with idea that just because you have the money, you can exert in ordinate influence in the political process."

          What if you have the ear of local VIP's?  What if you run the biggest union in the valley?  What if you simply have lots of people willing to riot (oops: "demonstrate") for you?

          "I can clearly see conflict of interest matters front and center."

          And what has been done with those perceived conflict of interest matters?  Specifics, please, on illegal or unethical actions taken by Musk as a result of conflicts of interest?

          "Having the political system up for sale is something our politicians should be standing against to their greatest ability"

          Our government has been for sale for a hundred years, and has been sold to those with the power OR money many times.  There is nothing new here, and it most definitely is NOT limited to one side of the political fence.  Leftwing beasts and varmints will claim otherwise, but then the truth has not been in them for far longer than that 100 years.

          1. Credence2 profile image82
            Credence2posted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

            Funny, when I ask you for documented proof and specifics you fall back on your “gifted insight” and just disappear into the ether.

            https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/202 … f-interest

            This article pretty much lays it out. There are several examples where Musk is operating on both sides of the table. Recuse himself? That is a crock.

            His position DOGE position relative to the billion dollar federal contracts should never be allowed. Anyone with 2 functioning neurons in their heads can clearly identify the conflict of interest. For heavens sake. wilderness, Musk cannot be in a position to decimate federal agencies, while making the trough more palatable for himself. I say that the “rules” apply to everyone. So, you can’t see that? I don’t trust anyone in such a position to operate impartially.

            Your example is irrelevant, Musk is given an authoritative Government position, that is different from having influence as a  local VIPs, but not the authority to legally tip the scales from an authoritative Government perch.

            I don’t acquiesce in the idea that the Government belongs to the highest bidder, just because the practice occurs does not mean that all efforts should not be taken to prevent oligarchs from running the Government to their advantage, and I don’t care how smart or rich they are.

            1. wilderness profile image76
              wildernessposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

              I'm sorry, but neither your link nor you have offered anything Musk has done, illegal and/or unethical, that takes advantage of his "conflict of interest".

              That you assume there will be something because he has large businesses just doesn't cut it.

    7. Miebakagh57 profile image83
      Miebakagh57posted 7 weeks ago

      It's real time politics. Even if a Dem is in power, that would be done I assume.

    8. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 6 weeks ago

      DOGE Claims Credit for Killing Contracts That Were Already Dead...

      Elon Musk’s group claimed credit for canceling procurement agreements that had been completed years earlier, the latest in a string of public errors on its site.

      While George W. Bush was president, the U.S. Coast Guard signed a contract to get administrative help from a company in Northern Virginia. It paid $144,000, and the contract was completed by June 30, 2005.

      Twenty years passed. Presidents came and went.

      Last week, Elon Musk’s restructuring team, called the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE, said it had just canceled the long-dead Coast Guard contract — and in doing so, saved U.S. taxpayers $53.7 million. DOGE also claimed credit for canceling two different Coast Guard contracts that had ended during the George W. Bush administration.

      That claim, posted on the group’s “wall of receipts,” bewildered experts on federal contracting. And there were others like it. Even after Mr. Musk’s group deleted several large erroneous claims from its website last week, The New York Times found that it had added new mistakes — claiming credit for “canceling” contracts that had actually ended under previous presidents.

      “These are not savings,” said Lisa Shea Mundt, whose firm, The Pulse of GovCon, tracks federal spending. “The money’s been spent. Period. Point blank.”

      The mistakes also seem to call into question the team members’ competence — whether they understand the government well enough to cut it while avoiding catastrophe.

      YA  THINK?

      “It’s obvious that they don’t understand,” said Eric Franklin, the chief executive of the firm Erimax, who advises the government on contracting procedures. His own firm was the subject of one of the errors on DOGE’s “wall of receipts.” Mr. Musk’s group claimed it had saved $14 million by canceling one of its contracts — which had ended in 2021.

      “It’s really akin to a bull in a china shop,” Mr. Franklin said. “And what do you end up with? It’s just a big mess.”

      https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/02/us/p … rrors.html

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

        This is the website where DOGE is currently working on, where they will offer a more professional description of what they have found in each agency. The site is very complete, and looks as if it will be what is needed to back up what they claim are factual findings. It is a very well organized site from what I have seen.   https://doge.gov/savings

        "We are working to upload all of our receipts in a digestible and transparent manner consistent with applicable rules and regulations. To get started, listed below are a subset of contract, grant, and lease cancellations, representing ~30% of total savings.

        The contracts listed below have been posted publicly on fpds.gov. FPDS posting of the contract termination notices can have up to a 1 month lag. There may be discrepancies between FPDS and the posted numbers, the latter of which originate directly from agency contracting officials.

        Last updated March 2nd, 2025. This will initially be updated weekly; over time, the website will improve and the updates will converge to real-time."

        This should offer more detailed transparency for the general public as well as News outlets.

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

          But they've claimed savings from contracts that have literally ended many many years ago?

          1. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

            I read the same report you did. I will wait and see if they address why they feel money was saved on contracts that were null and void. Hopefully, they provide some clarity. I think the NYT piece needs to be addressed by Musk and DOGE.

            1. Miebakagh57 profile image83
              Miebakagh57posted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

              That's okay. Updates would speak potentially.

            2. wilderness profile image76
              wildernessposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

              I may not be understanding, but how do you cancel a contract that was finished and paid for years ago?

              Do you now claim it was not completed and you want a refund?  If it was accepted as completed how would that work?

              1. Willowarbor profile image60
                Willowarborposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

                DOGE needs to answer that question.  They've claimed millions of savings by cutting a contract that was completed long long ago.  DOGE makes many "mistakes".

                1. Miebakagh57 profile image83
                  Miebakagh57posted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Yes, I agree DOGE, make some 'mistakes'.                              These mistakes, withdraw need updating.

                  1. Ken Burgess profile image71
                    Ken Burgessposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

                    Elon Musk speaks in considerable detail about DOGE and what they have found, in his recent interview with Rogan:

                    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSOxPJD-VNo

    9. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 6 weeks ago

      Off the beaten trail, what middle America survivalists are saying, and/or how to get ahead. Morning scuttlebutt with that cup of coffee before a day's work ahead.

      Do We Still Have to Pay Taxes With DOGE Running Amok? by Willamette Week (Mar 1, 2025)
      Given that there may not even be any IRS agents by next April, it’s entirely possible that you’ll get away with this.
      https://www.wweek.com/news/dr-know/2025 … ning-amok/

      Do we all still have to pay federal taxes if DOGE is deviating from what Congress authorized and appropriated in the budget? Or have we reached the “taxation without representation” phase of this oligarchy-in-the-making? —Fuck This Shit

      "I often begin my columns with an off-topic joke. Today, I’m promoting a theory from pundit Kara Swisher, who suggests Elon Musk’s sudden interest in public service is less about streamlining government than about getting his hands on the government’s data. Tech giants are running out of data to train their AIs, so tapping into everything the government knows about you and me will give Musk’s AI an edge. It will also, of course, create opportunities for many new and exotic forms of Orwellian oppression. Lol, amirite? Pass it on.

      Anyway, the good news is that the path of tax resistance is well trodden. The National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee, for example, has been providing instruction for conscientious tax resisters like you since 1982. The bad news is that they’ve been leading an anti-war tax revolt for 43 years, and one can’t help noticing that war has not exactly been stamped out.

      Still, nwtrccc.org is a good resource for those interested in this strategy. They suggest that salaried workers begin by increasing deductions on your W-4 until your employer stops withholding on your behalf. Come tax time you’ll owe the full amount; respond with (a) a principled letter refusing to pay on moral grounds, (b) the first of many extension requests, starting a Trumpian campaign of eternal stalling, or (c) a tax return so rife with fanciful deductions that you don’t owe anything.

      Given that there may not even be any IRS agents by next April, it’s entirely possible that you’ll get away with this. But will Trump be smart enough to see what you’re doing as a threat? You and I know the regime starts to crumble the minute Social Security checks start bouncing, but do they? It’s like fighting a rabid wolverine by threatening it with a bond-rating downgrade.

      Finally, you have to wonder if matching their “What can I get away with?” mentality with one of your own merely accelerates the breakdown of the rules-based social order. Do we really want to rush toward a society where people only follow the law at gunpoint? I suppose we’ll find out—right after we change the national motto from “E Pluribus Unum” to “You and What Army?"

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

        We reached that decades ago... soon after the USSR collapsed.

        That is when they gave us NAFTA and repealed Glass Steagall... and they kept it up all the way to sending trillions off to BlackRock and Vanguard to "save the economy" during and after the Pandemic.

        It only took the majority of Americans 30 years to figure out their government had been hijacked by a criminal cabal that has bankrupted the nation for their own wealth and power.

        Even better, we now can show how people like Soros used NGOs and Non-Profits to get our criminal members of Congress to send hundreds of billions of dollars to his efforts to destroy our nation.

        Now we are seeing the fallout... where it goes from here... does the criminal cabal win, they are more powerful and devious for sure... despite Trump, Musk, Kennedy, Gabbard, etc. stepping up, I don't like their odds.

        Never underestimate the predictability of stupidity... a faith in a Party or Ideology that flies in the face of reason and facts... well that is just plain stupid in my book.

    10. Miebakagh57 profile image83
      Miebakagh57posted 6 weeks ago

      I'm tired of these errors and cancelation of 'spent' or consumed contracts. Excessive of the deed is very alarming.                                            Is the team undertaking the task certify cashiers, accountants? Better not to mendle erronously with government finance before the public.

    11. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 6 weeks ago

      For Tesla and Elon Musk in Trump’s global trade tariffs war, ‘the genie is out of the bottle’ by CNBC / The Bottom Line (Mar 3; 9:50 AM EST)
      https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/03/for-tes … ottle.html

      [President Trump tariffs will take effect on Mar 4 at 12:01 am EST]

      Key Points

      ** Tesla’s stock price has plummeted after its post-election rally, down over 20% year-to-date and roughly 40% since a December peak share price, but analysts remain divided over whether a recent sales slump will be anything but a temporary roadblock, with Morgan Stanley issuing a new bullish thesis on Monday and suggesting shares could ultimately reach $800.

      ** With President Trump planning to implement new tariffs this week on key auto supply chain trading partners Canada and Mexico, and additional tariffs on China, Tesla will be among the companies hit with higher prices.

      ** From graphite to steel, aluminum and lithium-ion battery cells, many auto inputs are within cross-border supply chains that will hit automakers like Tesla even though they manufacturer within the U.S.

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

        I am earnestly watching... hoping it continues to drop...

        So I can buy back on the cheap... and wait for it to shoot past 400 again...

        This is what stocks do... especially Tesla... yay everything is great and then comes the boo everything is terrible... if you have the stomach for the roller coaster you can make decent money for doing little more than being patient.

    12. Sharlee01 profile image86
      Sharlee01posted 6 weeks ago

      Today DOGE Post

      DOGE
      Department of Government Efficiency
      @DOGE
      In 2020-2021, @SBAgov issued 3,095 loans, including PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) and EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan), for $333M to borrowers over 115 years old who were still marked as alive in the Social Security database.

      In one case, a 157 years old individual… Read more
      DOGE
      Elon Musk
      @elonmusk
      According to the Social Security database, these are the numbers of people in each age bucket with the death field set to FALSE!

      Maybe Twilight is real and there are a lot of vampires collecting Social Security

      1. abwilliams profile image75
        abwilliamsposted 6 weeks agoin reply to this

        You would think even Dems would be livid!!

    13. Miebakagh57 profile image83
      Miebakagh57posted 6 weeks ago

      DOGE is here to stay.

    14. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 6 weeks ago

      Jon Stewart Officially Invites Elon Musk on ‘The Daily Show’: ‘The Interview Can Be 15 Minutes, an Hour, Two Hours, Whatever’ by Variety (Mar 3,  2025)
      https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/jon-st … kk0NN-T79Q

      " Jon Stewart officially invited Elon Musk on “The Daily Show” after the Tesla founder posted on X last week that he would talk to the late-night pundit on air if his interview premieres “unedited.”

      Stewart began his opening monologue by reminding the audience that he “made a bit of a critique” of Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency during last week’s episode. He then took a jab at Musk’s familial drama before addressing his request for an “unedited” interview.

      “After a prayerful week with my family — well, a family. It is a family hall pass situation,” Stewart said. “But after thinking about his offer, I thought, ‘You know, hey, that’s actually how the in studio interviews normally air. Unedited.’ So, sure. We’d be delighted. As a matter of fact, let me sweeten or unsweeten the pot. The interview can be 15 minutes, an hour, two hours, whatever. I’ll be honest, I don’t think this network makes any other programming. So we can do whatever the fuck we want.”

    15. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 6 weeks ago

      Why is Elon Musk so obsessed with 'ghost employees'? by NPR / kpbs (Mar 6, 2025)
      https://www.npr.org/2025/03/06/g-s1-522 … mlIgZWc7DA

      "Shortly after Elon Musk's purchase of Twitter in 2022, he sent executives on a mission: Conduct a payroll audit.

      Musk wanted to verify that all of the social media platform's employees were "real humans," a request that perplexed executives at the company. Nonetheless, managers were tasked with confirming that some of their direct reports were indeed alive."

      A little further along . . .

      "In recent weeks, millions of federal employees have been sent emails from a generic government account demanding that they list their weekly accomplishments in five bullet points — messages that have prompted confusion and mixed advice across dozens of federal agencies.

      But Musk has made it clear: The emails are aimed at validating existing, breathing employees, a point he emphasized at a Trump administration Cabinet meeting last month.

      "They're literally fictional individuals, or someone is collecting a paycheck on a fictional individual," Musk said. "So what we're literally trying to figure out is: Are these people real? Are they alive?"

      The article is well worth the read for the curious of the nuances of Musk from traditional management. Interesting!

    16. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 6 weeks ago

      Elon Musk wants to save Western civilization from empathy by CNN (Mar 5, 2025)
      https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/05/politics … index.html

      "Americans are still in the dark about the scope and scale of what Elon Musk is doing with DOGE, the Department of Government Efficiency, which is working to drastically shrink the size of government by aiming to cut $1 trillion or more in government spending.

      But there’s some insight into what’s driving Musk — namely, an effort to combat what he referred to as “civilizational suicidal empathy.”

      A little further along . . .

      "We’ve got civilizational suicidal empathy going on,” Musk said, borrowing the term from Gad Saad, a Canadian scholar who is also a frequent Rogan host.

      While Musk said he believes in empathy and that “you should care about other people,” he also thinks it’s destroying society.

      “The fundamental weakness of Western civilization is empathy, the empathy exploit,” Musk said. “There it’s they’re exploiting a bug in Western civilization, which is the empathy response.”

      Empathy, he said, has been “weaponized.”

      With a hop-skip-jump arrives . . .

      " At each of those companies, Musk expressed a desire to save humanity: with electric cars in the case of Tesla; by making humanity interplanetary in the case of SpaceX; and by sticking up for the First Amendment in the case of Twitter.

      “He likes this notion of helping humanity,” Isaacson told CNN’s Christiane Amanpour in 2023. “In fact, he has more empathy for humanity in general than he often has for the 20 people around him.

      Musk still has that view of himself as a superhero taking risks; he repeatedly told Rogan about his fear of being killed. Now, instead of saving humanity, he believes he is saving the US government by cutting billions of dollars in spending, even if it impacts many Americans’ daily lives — by costing them their jobs or by curtailing government services — in the process."

    17. Brenda Arledge profile image81
      Brenda Arledgeposted 6 weeks ago

      It's sad that the American people refuse to realize what is right in front of their eyes.
      I wonder... Why hasn't anyone from Congress stepped up to the plate and put their foot down?

    18. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 4 weeks ago

      As an automotive enthusiast I found this interesting while wondering or using the imagination if it is an omen.

      Tesla Cybertruck's Latest Recall Involves Body Part That Could Fly Off by Car and Driver (Mar 20, 2025)
      https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a6424 … rt-recall/
      The eighth recall since the EV pickup went on sale over a year ago concerns stainless-steel exterior trim that can separate from the truck's body.

      https://usercontent1.hubstatic.com/17427186_f520.jpg

      ** Tesla is recalling 46,096 Cybertrucks due to a stainless-steel body panel that could potentially fly off the electric pickup.

      ** An exterior trim piece called the cant rail is secured with adhesive, which Tesla says is "susceptible to environmental embrittlement."

      ** To fix the issue, Tesla will use a different adhesive and clamp the part to the body, which will be covered under warranty.

    19. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 4 weeks ago

      An omen?  I think so. I've been thinking this one for a little while now..

      Tesla Investor Calls for Board To Oust Elon Musk as CEO

      Tesla investor Ross Gerber, the CEO of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management, told Newsweek it's time for the Tesla board to remove Musk as CEO in a phone interview Thursday evening.

      Gerber owns more than 250,000 shares of Tesla stock, which was valued at $248.71 per share at close on Friday.


      Tesla shares have dropped 37 percent so far in 2025... Will the board let Elon sink the company?

      https://www.newsweek.com/tesla-investor … sk-2048755

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

        This idea that Tesla should oust Elon Musk as CEO based on a drop in stock price seems a bit shortsighted. Yes, Tesla shares have dipped recently, but a 37% drop in 2025 doesn’t paint the full picture of Musk’s leadership over the years. Under his guidance, Tesla has revolutionized the automotive industry, pushing electric vehicles into the mainstream, all while expanding into energy solutions, AI, and space exploration with SpaceX. One year of market volatility isn't enough to undo that kind of impact.

        If anything, Musk’s involvement is integral to Tesla’s identity. He’s the face of the company and holds a massive stake in it, both financially and philosophically. His mom has claimed in several interviews that he’s impulsive and that it's never really about money for him. Musk is driven by vision, not just dollars. If he gets really pissed off by the constant attacks on his EVs and dealerships, who knows—he could just close up shop. Imagine what his investors would feel then. It’d be chaos, and frankly, no one would win.

        It’s odd that this push to remove him is aimed at a guy who, to put it mildly, likes to get the last laugh. Musk has faced criticism before and often comes out on top, surprising everyone. So instead of focusing on removing him in the midst of a rough patch, investors might want to step back and think about the bigger picture. A CEO with that much influence and commitment to his companies isn’t someone you want to push out on a whim, especially when his vision is what built Tesla in the first place.

        1. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

          There have been people trying to oust Musk for more than a decade now...

          Long before he bought Twitter or became a Trump supporter...

          Back when he was a lot more vulnerable economically.

          1. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

            Hi Ken,  I must use an old saying none more could do this justice "Money talks bullsh-- walks" lol

            It's honestly astounding at this point. The Democrats just can't seem to grasp that they can't beat Trump or Musk. It's like they've completely lost the use of a functioning brain. How many times do they need to try and fail before they realize that their attacks aren't going to work? It’s almost impressive how determined they are to keep banging their heads against the wall.

            While on the subject---Elon Musk's philosophy on life is truly unique, and it’s one that sets him apart from many other CEOs and public figures. His willingness to take enormous risks, often without fear of consequences, is a defining trait of his character. Musk doesn't just play it safe; he charges ahead with bold, sometimes controversial moves that challenge conventional thinking. What’s fascinating is how unafraid he is of the potential fallout. Many would shy away from the immense scrutiny Musk faces daily, but he seems to thrive on it. Musk's approach is a reminder that true innovation often requires not just vision, but the courage to face whatever consequences come with it.

            And look what popped up today! Oh, how delightful! Elon Musk is threatening to sue former Rep. Jamaal Bowman after he called Musk a “Nazi” and a “thief” on CNN. What a turn of events! Because, of course, accusing someone of being a Nazi in front of millions of viewers is just an innocent, totally fair political critique. Bowman's statement that “the American people do not trust Elon Musk” and that he's “incompetent” because of some layoffs—oh, that's just the cherry on top. As if Musk firing people (and then re-hiring them, mind you, after the court said, "Whoops, that's a problem") is the pinnacle of incompetence. No one has ever made a mistake before, right? The court literally said, “These people have to come back,” and yet, somehow, Bowman is still hung up on calling him a "thief" and "Nazi."

            And let’s not forget the classic left-wing media flair. Remember when they tried to claim Musk gave a “Nazi salute” on Trump’s Inauguration Day? Sure, let’s just toss around that comparison. His mom even got involved, telling him to sue CNN for pushing the "Nazi salute" nonsense. It’s almost like everyone has an opinion on Musk, whether it makes sense or not.

            The cherry on this ridiculous sundae? Bowman's fellow “Squad” member, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, doubled down on the whole “Nazi nepo baby” bit last month. Because, of course, that's a perfectly reasonable label to slap on someone who’s been at the helm of innovative companies, like SpaceX and Tesla, right? And let’s not ignore Bowman’s own track record. Remember that fire alarm incident in 2023? Just a minor little thing when he was trying to delay a government shutdown, but sure, let’s focus on Musk.

            But hey, some people are applauding Musk’s potential lawsuit. Conservative voices like Andy Ngo are thrilled to see Musk fighting back, calling out CNN for airing unchallenged defamatory claims. It’s like we’re all just waiting for the courtroom drama to unfold. If anything, this whole mess has really proven one thing: when you throw around wild accusations with no accountability, it doesn’t always end well. But, hey, what’s the worst that could happen? Maybe Musk will just throw a few lawsuits around, just to keep the fun going. But, he will financially bury most that have found it necessary to slander him. So very boohoo sad.

        2. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

          "If anything, Musk’s involvement is integral to Tesla’s identity. He’s the face of the company and holds a massive stake in it, both financially and philosophically.

          But that's exactly the reason it's declining.  His steak in the company is just under 13%.  He can definitely be ousted. 

          Sales are down 45% in europe, 15% in China and almost 15% in their biggest US market, California.   The stock is also significantly down.  Are they really going to just sit by and let the company go under?

          Data from Edmunds shows that Tesla owners have been trading in their vehicles at record levels since CEO Elon Musk joined Trump's White House. March represented "the highest ever share" Edmunds had seen for Tesla trade-ins toward new or used cars from brands sold at auto dealerships".

          Now that the car is so closely linked with elon's persona, people don't want it. 

          https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/20/tesla-o … -says.html

          1. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

            I’ve shared my thoughts, and honestly, I’ll let Elon deal with your concerns—he’s more than capable of handling it. LOL. Like I said, he could easily turn around and say, "Alright, folks, I’m folding up the tent. Sorry about your losses."

            I am getting more of a kick-out the possibility he may bring lawsuits against those who have slandered him. Talk about combatting Democratic deadheads. I can only hope. I mean at best they would learn a lesson, and pay financially for their defaming a man's reputation. I just love a true fighter---

    20. Readmikenow profile image85
      Readmikenowposted 4 weeks ago

      I'm always so shocked that the left would go after so strongly an African American like Elon Musk.

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 4 weeks agoin reply to this

        Why...he is trying to save America.

        Democrats are determined to enslave us and take away the freedoms we have long enjoyed.

        Democrats' tent is filled with jihadists, communists, criminals, warmongerers and terrorists who even now terrorize innocent Americans, right now their focus is on Tesla and Tesla owners.

        There should be no surprise at all how evil and demented they are.

    21. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 3 weeks ago

      Why is Elon Musk seated at the table at a trump cabinet meeting this morning at the White House?

      1. Readmikenow profile image85
        Readmikenowposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

        I was also confused by Jill biden being at the biden cabinet meeting.

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

          She attended one cabinet meeting to speak about a White House Initiative on Women's Health Research.  She didn't donate $280 million dollars to get a guy elected...

          Elon is the actual embodiment of everything maga has claimed George Soros to be for years...

        2. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

          Well you know... He needed his nurse their Incase he crapped himself or passed out ...

          Biden wasn't fit to be out on his own for a walk in the park... that anyone still believes he was running the country, now, knowing what we know, is more a testament to how gullible they are.

          1. Willowarbor profile image60
            Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            And you believe Trump is mentally fit? A man who says he never signed the authorization to use the alien enemies act?  The guy who has no idea what's going on with the dimwitted  fools of his cabinet that included a reporter in their text group chat on highly sensitive Yemen strike plans??

            Please... The question is, who's really running the country??  Trump clearly doesn't know what's going on.

            https://x.com/ReallyAmerican1/status/19 … 6399752701

    22. tsmog profile image83
      tsmogposted 3 weeks ago

      Can Tesla's reputation be saved? A crisis management expert weighs in. published at Yahoo finance (Mar 27, 2025)
      https://finance.yahoo.com/news/can-tesl … 8eeBPIP-7A

      "Boeing, Bud Light, Facebook — these are just a few of the biggest brands that at one point faced a major public relations crisis. This is where electric vehicle stalwart Tesla (TSLA) finds itself. The company's stock has been in free fall since the start of the year, with sales slipping in key regions like Europe and China and even in the US.

      CEO Elon Musk's closeness to President Trump and embrace of right-wing politicians in Europe has seen Musk — and Tesla's brand — suffer. Protests both in the US and abroad at Tesla showrooms are growing, as are acts of vandalism on Tesla EVs. Another wave of Tesla protests is slated for March 29.

      Yahoo Finance spoke to crisis management expert Eric Dezenhall, founder of Dezenhall Resources and veteran of many high-profile crisis responses. Though he declines to name his clients, Dezenhall has reportedly worked with large corporations like General Electric, Exxon Mobil, and Procter & Gamble. He also authored the book "Wiseguys and the White House," which is about the history of organized crime's influence on the presidency.

      The following is a condensed version of a conversation with Dezenhall about his thoughts on Tesla, Musk, and what, if anything, can be done now to repair the brand damage."

      https://usercontent1.hubstatic.com/17427186_f520.jpg

      1. Ken Burgess profile image71
        Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

        Thank you for that unexpected laugh.

        About two and a half years ago when I bought my first Tesla, I caught a lot of flack, let's just say most people in my current field of endeavor drive trucks, with an occasional Harley or sports car sprinkled in.

        First most people thought it was far more expensive than it was, they also considered it a car that only the weirdos/leftists would drive.

        Now I am getting asked about it every day.

        Suffice it to say most Trump voters are just now considering buying a Tesla.

        Essentially he has about 80-90 million new American customers that would never have considered buying a Tesla two years ago.

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

          Tesla owners are trading in their EVs at record levels, Edmunds says...Early estimate shows Tesla sales dropped this quarter In the US as overall EV sales increased... You really think the rest of the shareholders will let Elon sink the ship?

          https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/20/tesla-o … -says.html

          https://www.theautopian.com/early-estim … increased/

          1. Ken Burgess profile image71
            Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            I don't think you have a firm grasp of what Tesla is producing and will be producing ...Or what the bulk of stock holders invested in Tesla want or believe.

        2. Sharlee01 profile image86
          Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

          So silly- Tesla is most likely the best-built car on the road. Recently, a bomb was detonated in one of the trucks, and the sides did not budge. Get real, and maybe look at the actual research done on the car.  Tesla is superior to most cars.

          Tesla has received numerous accolades and awards, often being voted among the best cars in various categories. Here are a few notable mentions:

          Best Electric Car: Tesla frequently tops lists for the best electric vehicles (EVs), particularly models like the Model 3 and Model S. They are praised for their impressive range, performance, and innovative technology.

          Consumer Reports: Tesla has earned high marks from Consumer Reports, especially for the Model S and Model 3, in areas like acceleration, safety, and owner satisfaction. In some years, the Model 3 was ranked as the top pick in its class.

          J.D. Power Awards: Tesla vehicles have been recognized for their performance and overall customer satisfaction in various J.D. Power rankings, including high marks for performance and technology features. The Model 3 was named the Best Luxury EV in some rankings.

          Autotrader's Best New Car Awards: Tesla often appears in Autotrader’s Best New Car Awards, with vehicles like the Model 3 and Model Y being highlighted for their efficiency, technology, and value.

          Safety Ratings: Tesla’s vehicles, particularly the Model S and Model 3, consistently receive high safety ratings from agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

          EV Range and Technology Leader: Tesla is often ranked as the leader in terms of range and autonomous driving technology. The Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems, while still under development, are viewed as among the most advanced in the industry.

          Tesla's focus on innovation, performance, and cutting-edge technology has helped it remain at the top of many rankings, solidifying its reputation as one of the best cars on the market.

          1. Ken Burgess profile image71
            Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            Don't have to sell me... own two.

            2.5 years ... Spent 0 on gas.  0 on maintenance.  0 on oil changes or repairs.

            Change to my electric bill... Didn't notice one.

            Edit:
            Never have to worry about the wife being assaulted at a gas station.

            Top rated security... Cameras. Location. Remote control via app/phone-key.

    23. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 3 weeks ago

      Saying you're going to give people million-dollar checks "in appreciation" for them voting sounds a lot like paying people to vote, which is illegal.

      https://hubstatic.com/17435251_f1024.jpg

      1. Credence2 profile image82
        Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

        “The ones pushing the lies and propaganda, we’re going after them,” Musk continued. “I think there’s some real evil out there. We have to overcome it.”

        Musk wasn’t clear about what types of anti-Tesla speech could be subject to prosecution. When it comes to anti-Musk speech, the unelected meddler certainly has his pick. Asked by Baier how he feels when he’s “called a Nazi, a white supremacist, a fascist,” Musk said he and Trump both faced comparisons to far-right authoritarian leaders like Hitler and Mussolini – and said those responsible needed to be stopped.

        “They’re pushing these lies. And why do they push these lies? And I think need to hold people responsible for pushing these lies,” Musk said. “Because those lies almost got the president killed.”
        ————-
        Those that attack Tesla dealership or damage property should be prosecuted, but not as domestic terrorists. That is ridiculous. The Muskrat is being attacked for his role as Trump’s budgetary hatchet man. Musk seems to be implying that there should be penalties for those that speak against him, his products or his role under Trump.

        No one will tell me what to say or think….

        A forum member early on asked me what I had against Musk. I said that anyone that buddies up to Trump like he has is no friend of mine. Musk’s behavior has proved me right.

        1. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

          That is exactly what they are.  They are violent, radical, terrorists and should be treated as such.  They should be treated without mercy and the full extent of all available resources should be used to find, arrest, prosecute and imprison them.

          That you consider violent radical extremists anything short is what I consider ridiculous.

          1. Credence2 profile image82
            Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            Violent, radical terrorists, really? what do we call your "patriots" of January 6, 2021? These bloodletters are to be released under a pardon, now that is the very definition of hypocrisy

            So yes, I consider it.....

            1. Ken Burgess profile image71
              Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

              I, and the majority of Americans, see the clear difference.

              The people of J6 were Americans who felt the election had been stolen... and they targeted the government (those responsible) to express their concerns on.

              Your terrorists assault innocent Tesla owners as they drive down the street, or their vehicles parked in the grocery store parking lot... or the dealership where innocent people are working.

              You excuse that terrorism... you justify that terrorism...

              There is a clear difference between people irate with their government going to DC and expressing it... and lunatics that attack innocent people throughout America.

              Maybe you don't see the difference, but thankfully most Americans do.

              I can only hope Trump, Musk, and the rest continue to gain momentum with their efforts, defunding all entities which fund this insanity... when there is no more money coming from our own government supporting these anti-American, anti-Lawful, radical extremists... and that money is diverted to Agencies of Law and Order so that these terrorists can be rounded up and imprisoned, the country will be a much better, much safer place for ALL of us.

              https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bXVn7_XorU8

              1. Credence2 profile image82
                Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                "Maybe you don't see the difference, but thankfully most Americans do."

                Yeah, your rightwing oriented fascist adherents do, which melee was actually responsible for loss of life? That is not MOST Americans but those of the "wrong stuff"

                I don't justify anything, but I definitely am not letting your rabble and hoodlums attack the heart of our democracy without comment.

                We will bury Trump under the very rubble that he insists on gathering.

                And I don't trust anything that Musk says, as he lies and exaggerates frequently.

    24. Miebakagh57 profile image83
      Miebakagh57posted 3 weeks ago

      It's very curious that Americans will work against they highly placed peoples.

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

        One might see it as hateful vengeance or just plain jealousy. To me, for lack of a better word, it's simply creepy. I always wonder what it must be like to carry such a deeply negative mindset.

    25. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 3 weeks ago

      There is something really off with this man.  No, Elon This is America. People are free to say what they want about Tesla. People are free to criticize Tesla. I thought he believed in free speech? A self-proclaimed free speech absolutist, remember?  Remember how the maga folks on this forum rallied around that idea? LOL the hypocrisy

      https://x.com/atrupar/status/1905393842087420112

    26. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 3 weeks ago

      If the richest person in the world can go around buying votes to gain control of the courts..just like he seems to have bought control of the White House, then we’ve lost any semblance of the rule of law, and our democracy has been smashed to pieces. Or rather, cut with Elon's chainsaw hasn't it? 

      Seems A-OK with maga.

    27. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 2 weeks ago

      Musk getting heckled in Wisconsin where he gave away million dollar checks in the judicial election... Pretending like they are paid Soros operatives while he was  LITERALLY THERE TO BRIBE PEOPLE TO VOTE!

      Just incredible,  Does Elon know he’s actually doing everything he accuses George Soros of doing?

      https://x.com/YourAnonCentral/status/19 … 7039548808

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

        Your comment is your view, and I believe this kind of accusation is problematic and without facts.

        There are some key differences in the way Elon Musk and George Soros donate money to political causes. Soros typically donates through large, structured organizations like the Open Society Foundations (OSF), which direct funds toward progressive causes, legal initiatives, and political campaigns. He often funds grassroots movements, legal defense efforts, and district attorney races rather than directly contributing to candidates.

        Musk, on the other hand, takes a more personal and direct approach. He has used both his personal wealth and company-backed initiatives, like X/Twitter’s political contributions, to fund causes and candidates. His recent involvement in Wisconsin was particularly unique, as he gave away direct monetary gifts to individuals as part of a voter recruitment effort—something I don’t recall Soros ever doing.

        Their political leanings also differ. Soros is strongly aligned with left-wing and progressive causes, focusing on criminal justice reform, immigration policies, and democracy initiatives worldwide. He tends to donate to liberal think tanks and organizations that push for systemic changes. Musk, while previously seen as apolitical or more libertarian, has shifted toward supporting conservative causes, particularly those that align with his views on free speech, opposition to progressive policies, and judicial candidates with a strict constitutionalist approach.

        The big difference is TRANSPARENCY. There’s also a difference in transparency and public perception. Because Soros donates through foundations, it’s sometimes difficult to trace exactly where his money is going, where it is being spent. His contributions are often uncovered through investigative reporting rather than public announcements.

        Musk, on the other hand, is much more open with his financial support. He personally announces his contributions on social media, and his Wisconsin donations were highly visible, with physical checks handed out to individuals on a stage for all to see.

        Soro's hides in the shadows--- Musk is always out in the sun...

        1. Ken Burgess profile image71
          Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

          MUCH more importantly.

          Elon Musk is using his own money.

          Soros and his Open Society and other NGOs are using OUR money... the criminals that have been in control of our government, until now, funneling hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars to his Non-Profits and NGOs to destroy America.

        2. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

          "The big difference is TRANSPARENCY."

          Are you serious? So it's okay to buy elections, buy voters buy political influence as long as you're transparent about it??  There are very big differences between the two. 

          Musk: His payments are directed toward individual voters, specifically those who sign petitions or attend events...his payments are made directly before or during elections

          George Soros: Soros's funding goes to advocacy organizations, political groups, and campaigns...he donates throughout the election cycle.

    28. Ken Burgess profile image71
      Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks ago

      Elon Musk Just Exposed The Biggest Scam In American History !
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VpHG6Rer-s

      1. Willowarbor profile image60
        Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

        Musk is claiming they've found hundreds of billions of dollars of "waste, fraud, and abuse."  In the social security system...Yesterday in Wisconsin he said that they've found 20 million dead people on SS. And yet, not a soul has been arrested. This is what is known as "the Big Lie" technique....

        His claim of 20 million dead people on Social Security is a blatant lie to sway voters in Wisconsin. He’s banking on his MAGA cult eating up this nonsense while he tries to buy a state justice seat. It’s a new low, insulting everyone’s intelligence with zero evidence.
        How dumb does he think people are?

        It’s beyond insulting to have someone lie so excessively...

        1. IslandBites profile image70
          IslandBitesposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

          He’s banking on his MAGA cult eating up this nonsense...

          How dumb does he think people are?


          So dumb!?

          Well, it's MAGA... As you can see, he's kind of right.

          1. GA Anderson profile image84
            GA Andersonposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

            Yep, knuckle-draggers and mouth-breathers. Deplorables all. One doesn't have to be sharp as a tack to see how old and outdated their ideas are.

            GA

            1. IslandBites profile image70
              IslandBitesposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

              Salt of the earth.

              Good to see you still have a voice. You've been so silent lately.

              I wonder why.

              1. GA Anderson profile image84
                GA Andersonposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                The "why" is simple. Most of my rah-rah moments are being followed by wait-a-minute moments. I'm not sure what is going on yet.

                GA

                1. Ken Burgess profile image71
                  Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                  And here I thought it was because you were tired of talking to the wall.

                  How you doin?  (in Yonkers accent)

                  1. GA Anderson profile image84
                    GA Andersonposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                    I was more worried about being the wall. From the peanut gallery, you guys look like you're on a sugar high.

                    GA

                    1. Ken Burgess profile image71
                      Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                      No sugar high here.

                      It appears the conflicts started over the last four years are not so easily extinguished.

                      That is a cause for concern...

                      And unfortunately there are even more devastating events on the horizon than WWIII or the collapse of the Dollar.

                      If you are interested in going down a deep, dark, depressing hole... you can watch this and then go verify it's accuracy.

                      https://youtu.be/8904MH79z-4?si=a1rlYKhJbPgn8oYd


                      It looks like the Forums are becoming dysfunctional to the point where they might not be operating soon... So might not get another chance to wish you the best, thanks for the laughs, it's been a pleasure conversing with you all these years.

      2. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

        Thanks for posting this; I would have missed it. It's truly unbelievable that we have such fraud in our SSA. DOGE is doing a great job. I check DOGE.gov daily for what they have found and what they have saved. The cash is piling up. Here is the website where they keep records  https://doge.gov/savings?stream=top

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this
          1. abwilliams profile image75
            abwilliamsposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

            No, not debunked, not with this link, did you mean to share another?

            1. Willowarbor profile image60
              Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

              "Social Security policy experts and economists told ABC News that they are getting it wrong, contending Musk is misreading the agency's records system.

              The Social Security Administration (SSA) has multiple databases, including one that gets sent to the Treasury Department each month outlining who is receiving payments.

              According to agency statistics, of the 67 million people who receive Social Security benefits, only 0.1% are over the age of 100.

              "So, when they're throwing around numbers like tens of millions of dead people are getting Social Security, well there's only 67 million total. What are they talking about? Half the people are actually dead? LOL

              https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcom … #table5.a1

              https://crr.bc.edu/150-year-olds-arent- … -for-doge/

              And of course if you want to reject this, just provide any evidence that Elon has given...

              1. abwilliams profile image75
                abwilliamsposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                Contending a misreading isn't a debunking.

                1. Willowarbor profile image60
                  Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Yes, if you read the provided information or even seek more of your own it actually is a debunking.  His claims about SS  just aren't true.

          2. Ken Burgess profile image71
            Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

            This is your idea of being debunked?

            "SSA does make some improper payments, but they are not widespread (roughly 1%) and most of the mistakes made are overpayments to living beneficiaries, according to a July 2024 inspector's general report. That report found from 2015 through 2022, the SSA made $71.8 billion in improper payments. The agency issues $1 trillion in benefits every year."

            And mind you, that is on an "official report" done by an IG... so you have NO IDEA how accurate or fraudulent THAT report is.

            You just assume... corrupt government right... Musk wrong.

            Tell me... who launches hundreds of rockets a year... Musk's company or the government run NASA?

            Your government is overwhelmed with corrupt and/or incompetent folks... including the people who are paid to report on whether it is doing things correctly, or not.

            I have been on the side of overseeing millions of government funds being delegated to various programs... even back then the fraud and waste was unimaginable... the Biden Administration just took things to a whole new level... have you seen a positive impact for the 23 TRILLION dollars spent by the Biden Administration in 4 years?

            I haven't... I have seen whopping inflation... I have seen the world being engulfed in wars... the only ones who benefited it seems is NON-AMERICANS who were put on the Social Security roll... some 5 MILLION or more illegal migrants. Or the ones in Pakistan that got a million dollars to put on a LGBTQ+ play to further acceptance... you get the idea, it seems the Biden Administration was concerned for everyone the world over... OTHER than the American Citizens it was supposed to serve.

          3. Sharlee01 profile image86
            Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

            I read the article, not sure what you mean. You feel the DOGE website has been debunked, as well as all the multiple hundreds of documentation that the team has posted. What are you referring to? It seems you did not read my comment--- My subject is clear: DOGE website has been adding documents daily to give proof of what they have found, what they have gotten heads of agencies to fix, cancel, and save.

            Your comment would lead one to believe that the entire DOGE website has been debunked... Sort of silly

            The article is a nothing article, offering nothing but a few, actually very straightforward quotes from Trump and Musk---

            1. Ken Burgess profile image71
              Ken Burgessposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

              It appears that is all that is left for "the Left"... lies and cover-ups.

              1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                Willow sought to distract from DOGE’s well-documented daily activities, despite the team's clear and detailed transparency. It’s truly pathetic that some still deny the evidence of what’s being uncovered, corrected, and preserved.

                Hey, if they want to challenge what DOGE is posting on their newly built website—go for it. What stands out to me is how the media avoids covering these findings entirely. Instead, they cherry-pick a quote from Trump or Musk, claim it "implies" something (as seen in the article Willow shared), and run with it. This is exactly how they keep people from even looking into the real facts about DOGE’s work. And believe me—they're doing plenty to clean up the mess in government agencies.

                In the end, they’re doing exactly what they were hired to do—and doing it well. Hopefully, you’ve taken a look at their new website. It’s truly impressive. The left can’t hide what’s been documented daily; it’s all there for anyone willing to see. But, of course, many would rather stick to biased articles filled with carefully twisted words, clinging to a sentence or two. Like how “implies” suddenly gets treated as fact.

            2. Willowarbor profile image60
              Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

              I provided the link to the social security Administration that very clearly debunk the claims.  There is absolutely no credible documentation on the Doge website of this claim and it has been debunked at this point by so many credible sources

              1. Sharlee01 profile image86
                Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

                You shared a link to an ABC article that included some dates from 2023. DOGE has not reported any findings of fraud in the SSA records they’ve reviewed. Instead, they have identified poor record-keeping, including cases where deceased individuals remained on the rolls for years. I haven’t seen anything in their reports indicating that payments were being sent out fraudulently. Your response to my comment didn’t address the topic at hand. I simply asked Ken to review what DOGE is posting on their website.

                My comment to Ken was about DOGE, not Trump or Musk, yet you redirected it to an entirely different subject. No one has debunked what DOGE has posted on their new website. In fact, they seem to be taking a diligent approach, ensuring their findings are accurate and quickly correcting any mistakes. Their new website is well-constructed and easy to navigate. Are Trump and Musk interfering with DOGE’s work with their comments, maybe?  This does not take away from what the team is doing- They are doing an excellent job identifying issues, correcting past mistakes, correcting and updating old computer systems, and finding ways to save money along the way. I will leave the Trump and Musk fodder to other takers... Not interested

    29. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 2 weeks ago

      In response to AB I included the link to the social security site.. But if this doesn't work I will gladly provide an entire page of evidence  debunking elon's lie about social security... Come on, this is an even a hard one.

      "Social Security policy experts and economists told ABC News that they are getting it wrong, contending Musk is misreading the agency's records system.

      The Social Security Administration (SSA) has multiple databases, including one that gets sent to the Treasury Department each month outlining who is receiving payments.

      According to agency statistics, of the 67 million people who receive Social Security benefits, only 0.1% are over the age of 100.

      "So, when they're throwing around numbers like tens of millions of dead people are getting Social Security, well there's only 67 million total. What are they talking about? Half the people are actually dead? LOL

      https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcom … #table5.a1

      https://crr.bc.edu/150-year-olds-arent- … -for-doge/

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

        Free speech can be a real problem- sometimes we don't get all the truth, sometimes half, and sometimes we get a guy talking about his uncle being eaten by cannibals... Yeah, free speech can be a problem at times.

    30. Willowarbor profile image60
      Willowarborposted 2 weeks ago

      Elon made the Wisconsin race a referendum on his popularity and ability to outright buy elections. This was the most expensive judicial race in history. The musk backed candidate lost bigly.  Let this be a message to Republican elected officials that this guy is toxic and his endless money can’t save you from the political backlash.  Chainsaws, cheeseheads and checks didn't work!

      https://hubstatic.com/17439899.jpg

      https://www.wsj.com/opinion/wisconsin-s … e-38db797f

      1. Sharlee01 profile image86
        Sharlee01posted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

        And- is this illegal?  No

        1. Willowarbor profile image60
          Willowarborposted 2 weeks agoin reply to this

          And Republicans wanted us to cry a river over George Soros?  LOL he's donating a couple of dollars in relation to Elon.   How long have conservatives complained and whined?  Big dark money needs to get out of politics. Citizens United needs to be overturned.  At least the people of Wisconsin made it clear they can't be bought.

     
    working

    This website uses cookies

    As a user in the EEA, your approval is needed on a few things. To provide a better website experience, hubpages.com uses cookies (and other similar technologies) and may collect, process, and share personal data. Please choose which areas of our service you consent to our doing so.

    For more information on managing or withdrawing consents and how we handle data, visit our Privacy Policy at: https://corp.maven.io/privacy-policy

    Show Details
    Necessary
    HubPages Device IDThis is used to identify particular browsers or devices when the access the service, and is used for security reasons.
    LoginThis is necessary to sign in to the HubPages Service.
    Google RecaptchaThis is used to prevent bots and spam. (Privacy Policy)
    AkismetThis is used to detect comment spam. (Privacy Policy)
    HubPages Google AnalyticsThis is used to provide data on traffic to our website, all personally identifyable data is anonymized. (Privacy Policy)
    HubPages Traffic PixelThis is used to collect data on traffic to articles and other pages on our site. Unless you are signed in to a HubPages account, all personally identifiable information is anonymized.
    Amazon Web ServicesThis is a cloud services platform that we used to host our service. (Privacy Policy)
    CloudflareThis is a cloud CDN service that we use to efficiently deliver files required for our service to operate such as javascript, cascading style sheets, images, and videos. (Privacy Policy)
    Google Hosted LibrariesJavascript software libraries such as jQuery are loaded at endpoints on the googleapis.com or gstatic.com domains, for performance and efficiency reasons. (Privacy Policy)
    Features
    Google Custom SearchThis is feature allows you to search the site. (Privacy Policy)
    Google MapsSome articles have Google Maps embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
    Google ChartsThis is used to display charts and graphs on articles and the author center. (Privacy Policy)
    Google AdSense Host APIThis service allows you to sign up for or associate a Google AdSense account with HubPages, so that you can earn money from ads on your articles. No data is shared unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
    Google YouTubeSome articles have YouTube videos embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
    VimeoSome articles have Vimeo videos embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
    PaypalThis is used for a registered author who enrolls in the HubPages Earnings program and requests to be paid via PayPal. No data is shared with Paypal unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
    Facebook LoginYou can use this to streamline signing up for, or signing in to your Hubpages account. No data is shared with Facebook unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
    MavenThis supports the Maven widget and search functionality. (Privacy Policy)
    Marketing
    Google AdSenseThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Google DoubleClickGoogle provides ad serving technology and runs an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Index ExchangeThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    SovrnThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Facebook AdsThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Amazon Unified Ad MarketplaceThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    AppNexusThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    OpenxThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Rubicon ProjectThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    TripleLiftThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
    Say MediaWe partner with Say Media to deliver ad campaigns on our sites. (Privacy Policy)
    Remarketing PixelsWe may use remarketing pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to advertise the HubPages Service to people that have visited our sites.
    Conversion Tracking PixelsWe may use conversion tracking pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to identify when an advertisement has successfully resulted in the desired action, such as signing up for the HubPages Service or publishing an article on the HubPages Service.
    Statistics
    Author Google AnalyticsThis is used to provide traffic data and reports to the authors of articles on the HubPages Service. (Privacy Policy)
    ComscoreComScore is a media measurement and analytics company providing marketing data and analytics to enterprises, media and advertising agencies, and publishers. Non-consent will result in ComScore only processing obfuscated personal data. (Privacy Policy)
    Amazon Tracking PixelSome articles display amazon products as part of the Amazon Affiliate program, this pixel provides traffic statistics for those products (Privacy Policy)
    ClickscoThis is a data management platform studying reader behavior (Privacy Policy)