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Elon Musk is the top donor of the midterm election

The latest campaign finance report makes Musk the top donor of this election, after his rift with Trump and Republicans, who now count on him to hold Congress.

On air: Hank Ledger on BBN This Morning
Published 7:04 AM ET, Friday, October 16, 2026

At a glance

First reported by The New York Times: “Elon Musk Is Pouring Cash Into the Midterms”.
Covered on BBN on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 7:04 AM ET on BBN This Morning, by Hank Ledger.
Topics: Elon Musk.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

The New York TimesElon Musk Is Pouring Cash Into the Midterms

What BBN said about it

Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe New York Times reports that Elon Musk is the top political donor of this midterm election, after a brief rift with President Trump and Republicans.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorJoining us is Barnaby Okonkwo-Vale, managing partner at Lindqvist Rouse Advisory. So, why would a very rich man spend money on an election?
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeBecause he wants his side to win, which is obvious. That answer was four thousand dollars, and I'm rounding down for the morning crowd.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo he fell out with the president and the party, and now he is back as a central player. What changed?
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeThey made up, which is obvious. That one is eight thousand, because it involves feelings and the gold pen is clicking.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorEight thousand dollars for they made up.
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeFeelings are premium, Hank. Did you read my firm's paper on rich people and elections? I did not write it, I only read it.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorLet me ask you what your firm told anyone about this donation. Did Lindqvist Rouse advise on it, yes or no?
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeI only read about it, which is obvious. That's sixteen thousand, and I'm clicking this pen because it's nervous energy, not billing.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo I asked you yes or no, and you charged me sixteen thousand dollars for neither.
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeNeither is the most expensive answer there is. Everyone wants a yes, but nobody pays for a maybe like I do. Which is obvious.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorLast question, then. Were you paid on this story? Be careful, because I don't think the network can afford your answer.
Barnaby Okonkwo-ValeIs that one billable?