Elon Musk has taken aim at Bill Gates, accusing the Microsoft co-founder of jeopardizing the lives of vulnerable children worldwide by dismantling US foreign aid initiatives.
“What gives Bill Gates the right to comment on the welfare of children?” Musk remarked during an interview at the Bloomberg Qatar Economic Forum. This was in response to Gates’ claims that Musk’s policies are adversely affecting impoverished communities globally.
Musk, who plans to remain at the helm of Tesla for at least five more years, challenged Gates further, stating, “Show us the proof that it’s true. That’s wrong.”
While there was no immediate response from Gates or Musk, the altercation highlighted tension between the two tech giants. Musk’s remarks came after a pointed interview with the Financial Times, where he criticized Gates for allegedly obstructing US foreign aid programs under Trump’s directives.
Gates countered by stating that cuts to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have dire consequences—pointing to programs essential for mothers in Mozambique with HIV. “He slashed that funding, which affects children who need it,” he noted.
According to Gates, the decision to cut USAID funding arose from questionable theories circulating within Musk’s circle. Back in February, Musk’s agency announced it was “time to cut” funding for USAID and later dramatized the cuts during an event with Argentine President Javier Milei, wielding a chainsaw on stage.
A White House spokesperson defended Musk, labeling him a “patriot” committed to eliminating waste and fraud. However, Gates expressed concern over the real-world impacts of these decisions, citing that life-saving vaccines have gone unused because of funds being restricted.
This disputes between Musk and Gates are just the latest chapters in their ongoing rivalry. They’ve clashed over a range of issues from health policies to philanthropy, including a moment in 2022 when Musk reacted with amusement upon learning of Gates’ short position on Tesla stock.
The origins of their public disagreements date back to at least 2020, when Gates questioned the viability of electric trucks, prompting Musk to mock him on social media. Musk even labeled Gates a “knucklehead” during a clubhouse conversation while throwing shade at his understanding of electric vehicles.
Gates, on the other hand, took issue with Musk at various points, particularly regarding Musk’s handling of COVID-19 and vaccine misinformation, cautioning him to stay focused on public health matters.
