Elon Musk Heightens Security After Being Branded ‘Public Enemy No. 2’ By Media

Elon Musk has increased his personal security following a cover story by German news outlet Der Spiegel that labeled him “Public Enemy No. 2,” second only to Donald Trump. Musk accused the media of encouraging violence against him and Trump, stating that their portrayals are contributing to an increasingly hostile political atmosphere.

Speaking at a town hall in Pittsburgh, Musk addressed the rising tension in the lead-up to the 2024 election. He expressed concern over the Der Spiegel article, which depicted both him and Trump as threats to democracy. Musk warned that such media coverage puts him at risk, claiming that the mainstream media is “actively encouraging the assassination of @realDonaldTrump and now me,” as he posted on X.

Musk, who has been a vocal supporter of Trump and pledged substantial financial support to pro-Trump efforts, told the audience that he is upgrading his security. He joked about canceling any open-car parades, referencing the assassination of President Kennedy. Musk added that while he never intended to become deeply involved in politics, the stakes are too high for him to back down now.

Musk also discussed the growing hostility from the left, describing the level of vitriol as unprecedented. He noted that right-leaning individuals generally disagree with the left without harboring the same level of hatred, whereas the left’s rhetoric has become far more aggressive and intolerant.