"A Billion People Behind You”: China Cheers as Elon Musk Breaks With Trump
Elon Musk’s political pivot has captivated not only Americans—but also an enormous audience across the Pacific. In a dramatic rift that’s playing out like a tech-age political soap opera, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has turned his back on former ally President Donald Trump. And nowhere is this split generating more buzz than in China.
Once political allies, Trump and Musk are now at odds—publicly and bitterly. Musk’s vow to create a new “America Party” as a counter to Trump’s controversial megabill has ignited conversation on both sides of the globe, especially as the bill sails through the Senate despite Musk’s fierce criticism. The billionaire called the legislation “insane” and pledged to challenge lawmakers who supported it.
But while America debates Musk’s political future, in China, the reaction is quite different: admiration.
Musk’s Star Power in China
On Weibo—China’s equivalent of Twitter—hashtags like #MuskWantsToBuildAnAmericaParty exploded, gaining over 37 million views within hours of the U.S. Senate’s vote. Chinese users praised Musk for what they saw as bold, visionary leadership.
“Brother Musk, you’ve got a billion people behind you,” read one viral comment.
Another user noted, “If Musk formed a political party, it could revolutionize the way politics works. His tech-savvy mindset is exactly what leadership needs.”
Musk is no stranger to admiration in China. His electric car brand Tesla is the most respected foreign EV maker in the country, and the company’s largest manufacturing facility by output is located in Shanghai. Musk’s close relationship with Premier Li Qiang has made headlines before—and his mother, Maye Musk, is a beloved celebrity figure on Chinese social platforms.
Meanwhile, Trump’s Reputation in China Sours
By contrast, President Trump is perceived quite differently. Many Chinese citizens view him as erratic and antagonistic, particularly for launching what’s been described as the most aggressive U.S. trade war with China in decades. Recent threats to impose a 55% tariff on Chinese goods only further cemented that perception.
So when Musk took a stand against Trump’s massive tax and spending plan—estimated to add $3.3 trillion to the U.S. national debt—many in China cheered. Not just because of Musk's defiance, but because it symbolized a fracture in what some view as the Trump-aligned U.S. political establishment.
Weibo Watches the Drama Unfold
Comments on Weibo ranged from serious support to satirical humor:
- “These two billionaires are like teenagers—always fighting over nothing, but making sure the whole world sees it,” one user quipped.
- “Musk is basically live-streaming ‘How Billionaires Break Up’ every day,” joked another.
Remarkably, the conversation hasn’t been shut down by China’s usually strict censors—suggesting officials may view the chaotic U.S. political scene as a diplomatic advantage.
From Tech Titan to Political Disruptor?
With his influence already spanning the auto industry, space travel, and AI, Musk’s foray into politics is being watched closely—especially in China. His rejection of Trump’s policy approach and hints at launching a new political party have fueled speculation: Is Musk preparing to do for politics what he did for electric cars?
Only time will tell. But for now, the message from China is loud and clear: they’re watching—and they’re rooting for Musk.
