A political rift, a legal win, and a bold technological promise
Elon Musk has once again dominated headlines—this time not only for his technological ventures, but also for a high-profile fallout with Donald Trump, a significant legal win in Australia, and a futuristic promise through Neuralink. While Musk’s clash with the former US president made waves globally, China’s social media has exploded with support for the Tesla CEO, reinforcing his cult-like popularity in the region.
President Donald Trump, on the right, addresses the media during a news conference with Elon Musk in the Oval Office at the White House on Friday, May 30, 2025, in Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File]
Chinese social media backs Elon Musk over Trump fallout
The former bromance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk now reads like a tabloid drama. Musk’s public opposition to Trump’s tax and spending bill, which he called “insane,” sparked his vow to start a new political party: the America Party. The controversial bill, which is set to add US$3.3 trillion to the national debt, passed the Senate earlier this week.
Within hours, the hashtag #MuskWantsToBuildAnAmericaParty trended on China’s Weibo, gaining more than 37 million views. One user wrote, “If Elon Musk were to found a political party, his tech-driven mindset could inject fresh energy into politics.” Another stated, “Brother Musk, you’ve got over a billion people on our side backing you.”
Musk’s popularity in China continues to surge, driven by admiration for his innovations in Tesla and SpaceX. Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory remains the brand’s largest by volume, rivalling domestic EV makers. Moreover, Musk’s mother, Maye Musk, is a well-known celebrity in China, with many embracing the entire Musk family.
While Musk garners praise, Trump remains widely unpopular in China. Many see the former US president as a combative figure responsible for initiating the trade war that strained US-China relations.
Musk’s free speech victory in Australia
Back in Australia, Elon Musk scored a win against the country’s online safety watchdog. His platform X (formerly Twitter), along with Canadian activist Christopher Elston, successfully overturned a government order that demanded the removal of a controversial post.
The post in question claimed transgender people “belong in psychiatric wards,” sparking outrage. Despite being viewed 377,000 times, reposted 6,000 times, and drawing public backlash, the Administrative Review Tribunal ruled that Elston had no malicious intent. The tribunal found the post to be consistent with his previously expressed views and not cyber abuse under current law.
Musk’s lawyers hailed the ruling as “a win for free speech in Australia.” They accused the eSafety Commissioner of overreach, suggesting politically motivated censorship. X is also contesting a $610,500 fine issued by the commissioner in 2023 over its alleged failure to address harmful content.
Elon Musk and Donald Trump. [Archived photo: Reuters]
Neuralink promises to restore hearing
Not one to pause, Elon Musk dropped yet another futuristic promise. In response to concerns about hearing loss, Musk claimed that Neuralink—his brain-computer interface company—could soon restore hearing even in those deaf since birth.
“There is a clear path to restoring hearing with a Neuralink, even for someone who has had total loss of hearing since birth,” Musk posted on X. He explained that the device directly stimulates the brain’s auditory neurons.
Although Neuralink has focused primarily on treating paralysis, its first three human implant trials show promising results. One patient already uses the chip to play video games and learn 3D design. Musk revealed that Neuralink aims to implant 20 to 30 more individuals before the end of 2025.
Despite the lack of a clear testing roadmap for hearing restoration, Musk’s claim hints at a world where neurological disabilities might soon be reversed. True to form, the billionaire has once again turned a sci-fi concept into a near-future promise.
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Australia, China, and Elon Musk’s expanding influence
From Tesla’s success on Chinese roads to his growing influence in Australian legal discourse, Elon Musk continues to leave an unmistakable global footprint. His feud with Trump resonates far beyond American politics. Chinese citizens view Musk as a forward-thinking icon, and his comments ignite hope for political reform.
Meanwhile, in Australia, he plays a complex role—fighting for free speech through legal channels while also challenging the country’s digital governance. His Neuralink aspirations reinforce his persona as a revolutionary technologist, pushing humanity beyond current limitations.
In 2025, Elon Musk is not merely a business mogul. He has become a global conversation driver—whether in courtrooms, on social media, or in the speculative future of medical science.
