The question of whether Elon Musk is “evil” has been a hot topic in recent news. Several prominent figures have labeled him as such for various reasons.
Steve Bannon, a former advisor to Donald Trump, has publicly condemned Musk. Bannon calls him “truly evil” due to Musk’s views on immigration and foreign worker programs. He accuses Musk of pursuing “techno-feudalism” and prioritizing his gain over the welfare of American workers (Al Jazeera, 2025).
Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak also charged Musk with “committing evil.” This claim arose after Musk allegedly ordered his Starlink network to be disabled in a conflict zone. Podolyak argues that this decision allowed Russian forces to attack Ukrainian cities, leading to civilian harm (The Guardian, 2023).
Furthermore, Věra Jourová, the outgoing Vice President of the European Commission, accused Musk of being a “promoter of evil.” She highlights how Musk’s management of X has facilitated the spread of hate speech and antisemitism, putting vulnerable groups at risk (Politico, 2024).
However, Musk has also used the term “evil.” He described his father as evil, perhaps reflecting a complex relationship. Musk’s public persona often skews toward polarizing opinions. He seems to embrace controversy, whether in business decisions or on social media.
So, what do we make of these views? Supporters argue that Musk’s innovation and drive for progress benefit humanity. Critics suggest that his actions and platform management undermine societal values and safety.
To explore this ongoing debate, consider the following sources:
- Sukheja, B. (2023, September 9). Elon Musk “committed evil” by stopping attack on Russia, claims Ukrainian official. NDTV. https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/elon-musk-committed-evil-by-stopping-attack-on-russia-claims-ukrainian-official-4373320
- Michael, C. (2025, January 12). Steve Bannon condemns Elon Musk as ‘racist’ and ‘truly evil’. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/12/steve-bannon-calls-elon-musk-racist
- ABC News Daily. (2025, February 10). Elon Musk’s attack on ‘evil’ aid. ABC. https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/abc-news-daily/elon-musks-attack-on-evil-aid/104920030
- Engheim, E. (2025, February 4). Is Elon Musk actually evil? Medium. https://erik-engheim.medium.com/is-elon-musk-actually-evil-ea1fc86c894c
- Al Jazeera. (2025, January 13). Trump ally Steve Bannon blasts Elon Musk as ‘truly evil’ in MAGA split. https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2025/1/13/trump-ally-steve-bannon-blasts-elon-musk-as-truly-evil-in-maga-split
- Sauer, P. (2023, September 8). Elon Musk ‘committed evil’ with Starlink order, says Ukrainian official. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/sep/08/elon-musk-committed-evil-starlink-order-ukraine
- Jourová, V. (2024, October 16). Elon Musk is a ‘promoter of evil,’ EU rule-of-law chief says. Politico. https://www.politico.eu/article/elon-musk-promoter-evil-vera-jourova-european-commission/
- Jourová, V. (2024, October 16). Elon Musk is a ‘promoter of evil,’ EU rule-of-law chief says. Politico. https://www.politico.eu/article/elon-musk-promoter-evil-vera-jourova-european-commission/
What do you think? Is Elon Musk evil or just misunderstood?