Live by the sword, Die by the sword - Elon Musk goes on posting rampage as Democrats threaten investigations

Elon Musk has sharply criticised reports that Democrats could investigate his government activities and business interests if they gain control of either chamber of Congress.

In posts on X on Wednesday, Musk responded to a Politico report outlining potential inquiries into his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. The report said House Democrats wanted to examine the dismantling of congressionally authorised agencies, alleged conflicts of interest involving Musk’s companies and claims concerning restrictions on Ukraine’s access to Starlink.

Musk warned that he would investigate those behind efforts to scrutinise him. “Those who pick fights with me should understand that I will find out who is really pulling the strings and come for them, not just their puppets,” he wrote. He also responded to comments by technology journalist Kara Swisher during an interview with The Bulwark.

Swisher argued that Musk could face renewed investigations if Democrats regain congressional control. She alleged that DOGE’s actions had interrupted several investigations involving his companies and suggested those inquiries could resume. Musk replied by suggesting that Swisher wanted to go to prison.

In a separate exchange, Musk criticised traditional news organisations, prompting Wall Street Journal national security reporter Alexander Ward to ask whether the remark was a response to his reporting on Starlink. Ward shared a report titled “Musk Ordered Starlink Slowdown That Blindsided Ukraine.” Musk had previously disputed responsibility for the reported disruption, saying the affected service was Starshield, the military version of the satellite communications system.

He maintained that restrictions on that service were determined by the US military and ultimately the president. “Any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS,” Musk wrote. He separately said SpaceX’s commercial Starlink service was restricted to civilian and defensive uses and should not support offensive military operations.

The exchanges highlighted competing accounts of responsibility for the reported disruption in Ukraine and the prospect of congressional scrutiny of Musk’s government role and business interests. Musk also posted criticism of Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico, against whom he has reportedly spent more than $150 million.