Elon Musk uses @america X handle to boost Trump
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X owner Elon Musk seized the @America username on the platform, using the account to advocate for former President Donald Trump against Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.
Why it matters: Musk is using his social media platform to amplify right-wing views and is openly admitting his rightward shift to over 200 million followers ahead of the November election.
Driving the news: The revamped @America handle emerged before Musk jumped onstage with his arms held high to join Trump Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania for a make-up rally months after it was cut short when Trump was shot in the ear.
- The original @America user now has the account handle @America123_12. The account had been registered to another user since 2010, but has been dormant for four years, according to journalist Matt Binder.
- The user has posted over the years criticizing Trump and Musk. In one post, the user responded to Musk's "FREE AMERICA NOW" tweet by saying, "Freedom is not the question here, its safety. You're irresponsible. Are you even a full time resident?"
State of play: Musk's personal account bio direct's users to "Read @America to understand why I'm supporting Trump for President."
- The bio on @America account reads: "PAC was created to support candidates who champion Secure Borders, Sensible Spending, Safe Cities, Fair Justice System, Free Speech and Self-Protection."
- The PAC is currently offering supporters $47 for each registered swing voter they refer who signs a petition in support of the First and Second Amendments.
Between the lines: This is the latest instance of Musk taking handles from users since he purchased the platform two years ago.
- The platform's policies suggest that the company is allowed to take over inactive accounts and may permanently remove accounts due to prolonged inactivity.
Go deeper: Elon Musk: "I'm dark MAGA"
