Musk considers backing Vance instead of starting a third party

Elon Musk has abandoned plans to launch an "America Party," opting instead to potentially support Vice President J.D. Vance for a 2028 presidential run. Musk’s shift stems from a desire to avoid alienating GOP allies, as a third party could siphon Republican votes. He spent nearly $300 million supporting Trump and GOP candidates in 2024 through his America PAC, notably in battleground states like Pennsylvania.

Musk’s recent communications with Vance highlight his intent to preserve their relationship, recognizing Vance’s potential as a MAGA movement successor. He canceled a July call with third-party campaign organizers, citing focus on his businesses, including SpaceX, which may benefit from Trump’s recent executive order easing rocket flight regulations.

Despite earlier tensions, Musk and Trump have ceased public disputes, with Trump praising Musk’s businesses on Truth Social. Musk’s advisors note he hasn’t ruled out a new party entirely but has not engaged key supporters like Mark Cuban or Andrew Yang. “It’s almost an eerie silence,” said Libertarian Party chair Steven Nekhaila, noting Musk’s lack of action on third-party efforts.