Elon Musk lost for words as he addresses killing of United Healthcare CEO after admitting assassination fears

His own security team is described as a mini-Secret Service

Being the world’s richest man may sound like a dream come true, but when your fortune exceeds $340 billion (as of this writing), it also makes you a prime target. Elon Musk’s status as the wealthiest person on the planet has only intensified the controversy surrounding him, especially since he became a ‘special government employee’ and took the reins of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency.

Musk’s rise to power has sparked a storm of division, with not just disgruntled federal workers and public critics flooding the internet with bizarre AI-generated videos of Donald Trump sucking Musk’s toes, but also some far more serious threats. A disturbing number of individuals have been implicated in making death threats against him, adding a sinister layer to the debate surrounding his role in government.

In the wake of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s tragic death, Musk has expressed growing concern for his own safety. Alleged private messages between Musk and MAGA influencer Ashley St. Clair have surfaced, in which they discuss the real fears surrounding his position and personal security. As the stakes get higher, Musk’s presence in the public eye is attracting more than just praise—it’s putting him under increasingly dangerous scrutiny.

Trump was shot while at a rally in July 2024 (Anna Moneymaker / Staff / Getty)

In his own words, Elon Musk admitted, “I get credible death threats every day. I’m number two after Trump for assassination. Wake up. This is not the time for sentiment at the expense of safety.” The statement sheds light on the intense danger Musk feels due to his high-profile role, particularly since taking the reins of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Musk recently opened up about his assassination fears during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast. The conversation veered from bizarre predictions about sex robots to conspiracy theories surrounding Fort Knox, but it was Musk’s comments on his own security that caught the most attention. Reflecting on the shocking shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Musk said he couldn’t understand the motivations behind such violence. Rogan, in turn, blamed the media, arguing that networks like Fox News were the only ones highlighting the positives of DOGE’s cuts, while others focused on its flaws.

However, Musk made it clear that his position as head of DOGE has already made him a prime target. “I mean, I was supposed to go back to DC, how am I going to survive? Those f**kers are going to kill me for sure,” Musk said, openly acknowledging the dangers of pushing forward with his mission. He explained that exposing corruption within the government comes with significant risks, admitting, “I actually have to be careful that I don’t push too hard on the corruption stuff because it’s going to get me killed.”

The conversation then took a more unsettling turn as Musk explained how severe financial cuts—such as those affecting people’s ability to send their children to school—could lead to desperate actions. Drawing a parallel to Trump’s 2024 assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, Musk suggested that the shooter might’ve been “guided” toward the act, much like one would direct a curling stone toward its target. “If you’re brushing the ice, it’s eventually going to hit the bullseye,” Musk said. Rogan chimed in, suggesting that this was the power of influence, especially as seen in cults.

Musk concluded, “They’re making it sound like if you kill me, you’re a hero. What they’re doing is evil.” Despite the growing risks, Musk remains aware of the dangers surrounding him. To safeguard himself, he reportedly employs a security team of up to 20 staff members, affectionately known as ‘Voyager.’ According to The New York Times, Tesla and SpaceX collectively spend millions each year to protect Musk.

As Musk made clear during his conversation with Rogan, the threats against his life are something he takes extremely seriously, and the stakes have never been higher.