Fact Check: Elon musk used government subsides for money

Published March 15, 2025•Updated June 18, 2025

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VERDICT

True

# Fact Check: "Elon Musk used government subsidies for money" ## What We Know Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has significantly benefited fro...

Fact Check: "Elon Musk used government subsidies for money"

What We Know

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has significantly benefited from government funding throughout his career. A comprehensive analysis by the Washington Post reveals that Musk's businesses have received at least $38 billion in government contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits over the past two decades. This financial support has been crucial at various stages of his companies' growth, particularly during critical moments when they faced financial difficulties.

For instance, in 2010, Tesla secured a $465 million low-interest loan from the Department of Energy, which was instrumental in the development of its Model S electric vehicle. This loan helped stabilize the company during a precarious time, allowing it to go public shortly thereafter (CNN). Additionally, Tesla has benefited from $11.4 billion in regulatory credits from federal and state programs designed to promote electric vehicles, which have played a significant role in its profitability (Washington Post).

Moreover, Musk's companies have been awarded numerous contracts from federal agencies, including NASA and the Department of Defense, which have further contributed to their financial success (Fortune). In 2024 alone, government commitments to Musk's companies reached at least $6.3 billion, marking the highest total to date (Yahoo Finance).

Analysis

The claim that Elon Musk has used government subsidies for financial gain is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Washington Post's analysis is particularly thorough, detailing the various forms of government support Musk's companies have received and the timeline of these funds (Washington Post). This source is reputable, known for its investigative journalism and rigorous fact-checking standards.

CNN also corroborates the claim, emphasizing that Musk's wealth is intertwined with government support, especially in the early days of Tesla and SpaceX (CNN). The analysis from Fortune highlights Musk's strategy of leveraging government contracts and subsidies, describing it as a form of "subsidy harvesting" that has been pivotal for his businesses (Fortune).

While some critics argue that Musk's reliance on government funding is not unique to him—pointing out that many tech companies have benefited from government support—the scale and impact of Musk's subsidies are noteworthy. Experts like Daniel Ives from Wedbush Securities have stated that "the foundation for Musk’s financial success has been the US government," indicating a significant dependency on these funds (CNN).

In contrast, some sources suggest that Musk's companies have also innovated and created value independently of government support. However, the overwhelming evidence indicates that government funding has played a crucial role in Musk's financial ascent, particularly during formative years.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that Elon Musk has used government subsidies for financial gain is accurate. Substantial evidence from credible sources demonstrates that Musk's businesses have received billions in government support, which has been critical to their success. This funding has not only helped Musk navigate financial challenges but has also contributed to his status as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world.

Sources

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