President Trump hinted at Elon Musk's potential departure from the administration, prompting reflection on Musk's legacy. Despite portraying himself as a visionary, Musk's endeavors often undermine historical advances, particularly those stemming from the New Deal. By dismantling essential programs aimed at supporting the economy and community welfare, he paradoxically positions himself as a figure less about the future and more aligned with regressive ideologies. Historically, figures like Franklin Roosevelt focused on restructuring society to build a better future, whereas Musk appears fixated on eliminating jobs rather than fostering opportunity.
Mr. Musk has long presented himself to the world as a futurist. Yet, notwithstanding the gadgets the rockets and the robots... few figures in public life are more shackled to the past.
Much of what he has sought to dismantle, from antipoverty programs to national parks, have their origins in the New Deal.
Mr. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration provided 8.5 million Americans with jobs; Mr. Musk has measured his achievement in the number of jobs he has eliminated.
In his first 100 days, Mr. Roosevelt signed 99 executive orders and Congress passed more than 75 laws, beginning the work of rebuilding the country.
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