Former Clinton Official Calls for Democrats to Target Musk and Take Over SpaceX

November 1, 2026 - 02:00

Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich is urging Democratic lawmakers to confront Elon Musk directly if they win back control of Congress, arguing that the billionaire's growing influence over government contracts and infrastructure demands a forceful response.

Reich, who served in the Clinton administration, said Democrats should pursue government ownership of SpaceX and Starlink, framing the companies as critical assets that should not remain under the control of a single private individual. His remarks reflect a broader frustration among some progressives with Musk's expanding role in federal operations and his close ties to the current administration.

The proposal faces steep political and legal hurdles. Nationalizing private aerospace and satellite companies would require congressional approval and would almost certainly trigger intense opposition from Republicans and industry groups. SpaceX is a major contractor for NASA and the Defense Department, while Starlink provides satellite internet service in dozens of countries.

Reich's comments add to the ongoing debate over how much power private executives should hold over essential infrastructure. Supporters of his position argue that public oversight is necessary when private companies perform functions traditionally handled by government. Critics contend that government seizure of private firms would discourage innovation and investment in the space sector.

The call to "defund Musk" has become a rallying phrase among some Democratic activists, though party leaders have not endorsed the idea.