The year 2025 is marked by an unexpected clash between two iconic figures: Elon Musk and Donald Trump. This media duel, which is capturing the world’s attention, pits the technology magnate against the former President of the United States. Tensions rise as their divergent visions of the future of America and technology collide.
Social networks are ablaze, the media are seizing on every statement, and supporters of both camps are mobilizing. This article explores the origins of this surprising clash and its potential repercussions on the global political and technological scene.
Background and consequences of Shira Perlmutter’s dismissal
Elon Musk’s and Donald Trump’s dismissal of Shira Perlmutter, former head of U.S. copyright, has sparked intense debate. The departure is seen as an advantage for big tech companies, although Perlmutter’s replacements, Paul Perkins and Brian Nieves, are determined to regulate the sector.
A key factor in this decision was the preliminary report issued by Perlmutter’s office, which questioned the legality of training AI with copyrighted data. This reflects a struggle for influence between conservative interests and advocates of technological deregulation.
New Players and Their Impact on Technology Policy
Paul Perkins, a former Justice Department official under Trump, and Brian Nieves, an aide to the Deputy Attorney General, embody a desire for technological regulation. Contrary to expectations, these figures do not support Musk’s pro-tech agenda but align themselves with MAGA principles. Todd Blanche, appointed head of the Library of Congress after the departure of his predecessor, plays a key role in seeking to impose financial constraints on Google to remedy the problems identified by the Justice Department.
These appointments could mark a turning point towards a stricter policy towards the tech giants, reflecting a split among Republican backers between deregulation and greater control.
Conflicts of Interest and the Influence of Conservative Business Interests
The tension between supporters of technological deregulation and those advocating stricter copyright controls highlights a conflict of interest within the presidential coalition. Mike Davis, Trump’s antitrust advisor, strongly criticizes the monetization of copyrighted content by major platforms, which he sees as a blatant violation of copyright.
This opposition underscores the growing influence of conservative business interests, which seem to be taking precedence over the technolibertarianism embodied by Elon Musk. As Musk steps away from government affairs, the conservative forces that backed Trump may well redefine technology regulation, prioritizing copyright protection in the face of AI expansion.
