In a surprising turn of events, California Governor Gavin Newsom has voiced his support for Elon Musk in the billionaire’s legal dispute with the California Coastal Commission. The commission’s rejection of an expansion of SpaceX rocket launches along the Pacific coast has sparked a heated debate, with Newsom aligning himself with Musk’s stance.
Newsom, fresh off a campaign event for Vice President Kamala Harris in North Carolina, expressed his disapproval of the commission’s decision in a recent interview with Politico. He suggested that the commission’s focus on Musk’s political affiliations, citing his support for former President Donald Trump, amounted to political discrimination.
Musk himself filed a lawsuit against the commission in federal court in Los Angeles, alleging blatant political bias in the decision. The Coastal Commission’s 6-4 vote against the increased launches had sparked controversy, raising questions about the classification of SpaceX activities and shifting the conversation towards Musk’s political conduct and labor practices.
While Newsom’s comments might not directly aid Musk’s legal case, he acknowledged that political issues should not play a role in such decisions. He emphasized that his administration had previously worked with the Defense Department to address concerns regarding the launch proposal, and efforts were made to find common ground before the commission’s decision. Newsom argued that the focus should have remained on the broader implications of the project, not Musk’s political persona.
This unexpected show of support from Newsom is particularly intriguing considering their past disagreements, including Musk’s relocation of businesses and Newsom’s criticisms of Trump. Newsom acknowledged the potential irony of supporting Musk, highlighting the billionaire’s substantial donations to Trump while suggesting that such actions raise questions about his character.
The unfolding legal battle between Musk and the California Coastal Commission has become a high-profile case, showcasing the complexities of balancing environmental concerns, economic development, and political considerations. Newsom’s public support for Musk, despite their past clashes, is sure to fuel further debate and highlight the intricate relationships between political leaders, industry giants, and regulatory bodies.