TV host Jon Stewart provided an update on April 24, 2025, regarding his efforts to arrange an interview with Elon Musk on “The Daily Show.” Stewart disclosed that despite Musk’s initial agreement to appear, the Tesla CEO ultimately did not follow through.
The effort started after a user on the social media platform X suggested that Musk and Stewart engage in a discussion following Stewart’s criticism of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk publicly responded with a condition for his participation: that the interview be aired without edits.
“The Daily Show” agreed to Musk’s terms, but complications arose when Musk began to reconsider his involvement.
Stewart recounted, “He said, ‘I’ll come on the show if you air it unedited.’ And we went, ‘Sure, fine. That’s how most of them are, so sure…,'” adding, “And then he said, ‘You’re propaganda,’ and he started to back away.”
Stewart discussed Musk’s withdrawal on his show, noting Musk’s previous actions, such as wearing a custom-made Dark MAGA hat in the Oval Office with President Trump, whom Musk supported financially in the amount of $270 million, and labeling Stewart as excessively partisan.
Despite the public exchange, Stewart attempted to proceed with the interview through private communication channels. “I did DM him,” Stewart mentioned on “The Weekly Show” podcast. “I texted him and just said like, ‘Hey man, so is there somebody I should, you know, have our guys reach out to, to make this happen?’ And I got ghosted.”
Stewart humorously commented on the situation, suggesting that Musk’s lack of response is not uncommon, particularly given Musk’s recent personal disclosures. Stewart noted that Musk had seen the message but did not reply.
The unsuccessful attempt at an interview coincides with reports of Musk potentially stepping back from his role in government. The Washington Post reported that Musk is contemplating leaving his position at DOGE due to perceived negative and unethical criticism from political opponents, and Tesla’s financial losses.
In response to this report, one of Stewart’s producers mentioned it, and Stewart reacted with sarcasm, implying the criticisms were likely “completely undeserved” and unrelated to Musk’s actions, such as publicly celebrating job losses due to governmental restructuring.
Stewart also expressed concerns about a perceived trend of avoiding accountability within the Trump administration. He pointed out that officials, including Musk, appear to deflect responsibility and blame others, comparing it unfavorably even to his children’s behavior.
This episode occurs amid growing scrutiny of Musk’s political engagements and their ramifications for his business interests. According to Wedbush Securities, Tesla is experiencing what analyst Dan Ives described as a “code red” situation due to “brand damage” linked to Musk’s involvement with DOGE.
Musk has reportedly had disagreements with government officials on various topics, including cost-cutting initiatives and the appointment of an IRS commissioner. His directive for federal employees to submit weekly reports of their activities has been discontinued by some agencies.
Musk’s political activities have also extended internationally, with European leaders expressing concerns over his support for right-wing, Eurosceptic parties. His association with President Trump and participation in the administration have raised questions about his status as a private citizen versus a public official when managing his social media platform X.
Musk’s political involvement is impacting consumer perception of Tesla. Reports indicate a decline in sales in major markets like Germany, France, and California, as consumers react with boycotts and protests.
Some investors have suggested Musk should resign as Tesla CEO while remaining on the board, expressing concern that his political activities are diverting his attention from the company. Ives highlighted the link between Musk’s personal brand and Tesla’s, warning of a potential “15-20 percent permanent demand destruction” among prospective buyers.
Meanwhile, Stewart continues his work on “The Daily Show,” maintaining his approach of combining political analysis with humor, a style he has brought back after his previous tenure from 1999 to 2015.
