Elon Musk does not often share the limelight with others. Donald Trump is an exception to this. So is Antonio Gracias.
Thanks, whom you likely haven't heard of, took center stage in Wisconsin alongside the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX during a difficult period last week. This challenging time included a shocking sequence of setbacks for Musk both professionally and politically. The fact that Thanks was brought forward from obscurity highlights just how troubled matters have gotten for Musk, despite President Trump’s continued support thus far.
Historical evidence indicates that during Musk’s most intense struggles, Gracias frequently steps up as his go-to problem solver. They have collaboratively transformed sectors such as automotive and space exploration. However, they now confront an unprecedented challenge—one laden with political complexity—in their attempt to overhaul the U.S. government structure.
Up until recently, Gracias seldom attended high-profile public events. Over the last twenty years, he has leaned towards maintaining a low profile while both investing in and personally assisting Musk in constructing his business empire.
That partnership has significantly enriched both individuals financially. However, their connection runs deeper than mere wealth. "Elon and I have collaborated extensively for more than two decades," says Gracias. posted on X Earlier this year, amidst one of the numerous storms that Musk has encountered since moving to Washington, D.C., to helm DOGE.
His heart is untainted, and his only purpose is to aid mankind," Gracias went on. "In the bleakest times, he has guided me toward embracing bravery and kindness instead of succumbing to terror and animosity. Considering any alternative notion is preposterous.
The excitement surrounding Musk escalated to new heights last week. Over a brief period, Tesla announced first-quarter vehicle deliveries On Wednesday, they failed to reach Wall Street’s expectations. The numbers showed a decline of 13% compared to the previous year.
The electric-vehicle firm's poorest financial performance over the past few years is attributed to two main factors: Musk's political views deterring possible customers and an outdated model range that hasn’t kept pace with competitors, particularly those based in China.
On the very same day, Musk was being held responsible for a political defeat Tuesday in Wisconsin , the first big test of his ability to influence elections after helping get President Trump re-elected in November.
Musk’s approximately $25 million campaign to influence the Wisconsin Supreme Court election did not have any significant impact.
Even prior to the difficult week, Musk had been attempting to shift the story, making an appearance on Fox News alongside some DOGE team members—a situation reminiscent of 2023 when he did the same thing. place Tesla executives ahead of investors To ease concerns, he became preoccupied with his acquisition of what was once known as Twitter.
Still, a Wall Street Journal survey Released last Friday presents a grim view of Musk’s public image, indicating his unfavorability rose to 53% from 45% in an analogous survey conducted in October, where opinions about him were evenly divided. Additionally, his management of the DOGE—a reference to the Department of Government Efficiency—caused apprehensions amongst participants in the study.
Musk’s rapid and significant reduction of public sector positions, which was supported by certain Republican backers, has intensified feelings of economic instability. According to data from the outplacement company Challenger, Gray & Christmas, the job cuts linked to DOGE have impacted approximately 280,000 employees.
It is becoming more apparent that his time with DOGEISOString] is drawing to a close When his 130-day term as a special government employee comes to an end, "He's incredible, but he has a major corporation to manage," Trump stated to journalists lately. "Eventually, he'll have to return."
Musk made a related statement earlier. Last week on stage in Green Bay, Wisconsin, prior to the state’s election, he emphasized the pressures faced due to his government duties as well as their impact on Tesla—the company's stock price has fallen approximately 40 percent this year.
"What they're attempting to achieve is exerting intense pressure on both myself and Tesla, I suppose... so that we cease these actions," Musk stated to the gathering of supporters he hoped would show up and cast their votes.
The globe's wealthiest individual was advised that the capital's political scene could be quite ruthless as they discussed their plan to work 120-hour weeks with the aim of cutting federal expenditures by $1 trillion.
In an interview with Sean Hannity in February, the Fox News presenter conveyed the familiar adage: "In D.C., if you wish for a friend, adopt a dog."
Back then, Musk dismissed it with a laugh. "Yes, I own a dog," he responded, "however, I also have friends." His dog, Floki , didn’t go with him to Washington, but Gracias did.
Gracias has offered to delve into the Social Security records, searching for alleged fraud and misuse. Taking on such a task is similar to being asked to handle the third rail of Washington politics.
This isn't the first instance of Musk turning to Gracias to navigate a complex and perilous scenario.
As an investor in Tesla, Gracias was called upon in the initial stages to assist Musk in managing the spiraling expenses associated with the company’s inaugural vehicle. "I believe we wouldn't have succeeded without his assistance," Musk remarked during a talk at the Economic Club of Chicago in 2012.
Subsequently, Gracias assisted in crafting an initial sales strategy at Tesla that emphasized dispatching sales personnel for test drives at festivals and events instead of establishing costly retail outlets. As the firm expanded, Gracias along with his team from Valor Equity Partners tackled various issues, particularly challenges related to the Model 3 sedans, which nearly caused financial ruin for the company in 2018.
He also attempted to shield Musk from such situations. own worst enemy Walter Isaacson mentioned in his biography about Musk that Gracias once confined his friend’s smartphone inside a hotel safe to prevent him from posting on social media during one of his well-known late-night tweeting frenzies.
Thank you is one of the few individuals in Musk’s life with significant influence. This may stem from his discretion. Most information about their relationship originates from lawsuits where specifics of their holidays and camaraderie came to light. Thank you previously sat on the Tesla board and still serves on the SpaceX board.
He proceeded to assist Musk after he acquired Twitter. Following that, there was Musk’s involvement in politics along with his interest in DOGE.
In Wisconsin, Musk asked Gracias to share some of his insights regarding Social Security. He stayed on stage alongside Musk as they responded to queries and received praise from their supporters.
The two men stood side by side, lowering their heads as a pastor from the gathered crowd initiated a prayer requesting God’s safeguard for Musk. "That was wonderful," Musk commented. "Honestly, I believe we might require some divine protection."
Gracias agreed.
Send your message to Tim Higgins. [email protected]