He’s said $42.45bn spent by the US for rural internet isn’t efficient. His Starlink company stands to benefit if he reduces that investment

Summary

Elon Musk, co-leading Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency,” could influence U.S. broadband funding to benefit Starlink, his satellite internet company.

The Biden administration’s $42.45 billion BEAD program prioritizes fiber optics for rural broadband, but Starlink has been excluded for failing to meet performance standards.

Musk has criticized the program as wasteful and could push for funding delays or reallocation, benefiting Starlink as the only option in underserved areas.

Critics warn this shift favors Musk’s financial interests over reliable fiber infrastructure, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.