On Thursday, April 24, TV host Jon Stewart updated audiences about his efforts to arrange an interview with Elon Musk for “The Daily Show,” disclosing that the Tesla CEO ultimately “ghosted” him despite initially agreeing to participate.
The situation started when a user on X proposed a discussion between Musk and Stewart following Stewart’s fervent commentary against DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), during which he accidentally cut his hand with a coffee mug. Musk publicly responded that he would appear on the show on the condition that the interview would be aired unedited.
“The Daily Show” accepted these terms, but the arrangement deteriorated as Musk reconsidered.
“He said, ‘I’ll come on the show if you air it unedited.’ And we went, ‘Sure, fine. That’s how most of them are, so sure…,'” Stewart explained. “And then he said, ‘You’re propaganda,’ and he started to back away.”
Stewart discussed this withdrawal on his program, noting that Musk, who had custom-made his own Dark MAGA hat to offer opinions in the Oval Office with President Trump, whom Musk invested $270 million to help elect, regarded Stewart as too partisan.
Despite the public exchanges, Stewart pursued the interview through private channels. “I did DM him,” Stewart shared on “The Weekly Show” podcast. “I texted him and just said like, ‘Hey man, so is there somebody I should, you know, have our guys reach out to, to make this happen?’ And I got ghosted.”
Stewart humorously remarked that, given recent news about Musk’s “baby mamas,” being ignored by the tech billionaire is not uncommon. Stewart confirmed that Musk had seen his direct message but did not reply.
This unsuccessful interview attempt coincides with reports that Musk may be reconsidering his government role. According to The Washington Post, Musk is contemplating leaving his position at DOGE due to what he perceives as a “slew of nasty and unethical attacks from the political left.”
When one of Stewart’s producers mentioned this report, Stewart reacted with sarcasm, implying that these attacks were likely “completely undeserved” and not reflective of Musk’s actions, such as “standing on a stage with a chainsaw celebrating the loss of livelihoods for tens of thousands of well-intentioned government workers.”
Stewart also commented on a perceived pattern of avoiding accountability within the Trump administration, suggesting that officials, including Musk, exhibit an unusual capacity to evade responsibility and shift blame, something he finds unprecedented compared to his own children’s behavior.
This controversy arises amid growing concerns about Musk’s political engagements and their impact on his businesses. Wedbush Securities’ analysis indicates Tesla is facing a “code red” moment due to “brand damage” linked to Musk’s involvement with DOGE.
Musk has reportedly had disagreements with government officials over various matters, including cost-cutting measures and the appointment of an IRS commissioner. His contentious requirement that federal employees send weekly activity emails has been abandoned by some agencies.
The tech entrepreneur’s political involvement extends beyond U.S. borders, with European leaders voicing concerns about his support for right-wing, Eurosceptic parties. His close ties with President Trump and role in the administration have led to questions about whether he should be considered a private citizen or a public official when using his social media platform X.
Musk’s political activities are impacting consumer sentiment toward Tesla. Reports show declining sales in key markets like Germany, France, and California, as consumers express disapproval through boycotts and protests.
Some investors have called for Musk to step down as Tesla CEO while remaining on the board, concerned that his political work distracts him from managing the electric vehicle company. Ives emphasized the link between Musk’s personal brand and Tesla, stating “Tesla is Musk and Musk is Tesla,” warning of “15-20 percent permanent demand destruction” among future buyers.
Meanwhile, Stewart continues his work on “The Daily Show,” bringing his unique blend of political commentary and humor to the program he returned to after previously hosting it from 1999 to 2015.