In a recent development, U.S. Border officials reportedly received no official requests or significant warning prior to Elon Musk's highly publicized visit to the US-Mexico border on September 28.
This information was revealed through emails obtained by NBC News via a Freedom of Information Act request.
The emails depict government officials discussing and briefing each other about Musk's visit. The Tesla CEO, donning a cowboy hat, appeared at the border site near Eagle Pass, Texas, alongside Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas.
The pair engaged in discussions about immigration while Musk live-streamed the scene, which included dozens of detained migrants, to social media platform X.
This incident attracted considerable attention, amassing over 22 million views on X and generating numerous headlines. Despite Musk's public posts about the potential visit, border officials stated in emails that they had not received any official requests from either Musk or Gonzales.
The rationale behind NBC's FOIA request regarding Musk's border visit remains somewhat unclear. However, it is worth noting that mainstream media's interest in Musk intensified after he announced his intention to vote Republican in 2024. This declaration seemingly transformed Musk's public image overnight, with many criticizing him for betraying his class.
Musk, who has become an increasingly vocal figure on US political issues, has frequently discussed immigration online. His companies have made significant investments in Texas and purchased large tracts of land, making him a prominent figure in the state.
The NBC report has raised questions about the necessity of informing the government about one's movements within the country. It is unclear whether NBC reporters, or any other citizens, are required to make "requests" or notify the government when they legally travel around the country.
The report also sparked criticism for implying that Musk did something wrong by visiting the border and drawing attention to the ongoing illegal immigration crisis. Labeling the story as an "EXCLUSIVE," as if it had uncovered a scandal, added fuel to the fire.
NBC employs reporter Ben Collins, known for his pro-censorship stance. Collins has been noted for his frequent criticism of Musk. It is unknown whether he, or other NBC reporters, inform the Biden Administration of their movements.
The report also raises questions about whether Musk informs the government about his commutes to and from work along the border, given that SpaceX is based in Boca Chica, Texas, which is located along the Texas-Mexico border.
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