Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg responded to false conspiracy theories about federal disaster aid for victims of Hurricane Helene that were spread by Elon Musk on his social media platform. Musk claimed that the FAA was shutting down airspace and hindering flights transporting supplies to the disaster zone. Buttigieg clarified that no airspace restrictions were in place in North Carolina and that the FAA was working with local authorities to ensure rescue efforts could proceed safely. Musk also accused FEMA of blocking citizens who were trying to help those in trouble.
Musk has been spreading various conspiracies about federal emergency personnel in the wake of Hurricane Helene, as government agencies work to provide relief to those affected by the storm. He has endorsed former President Donald Trump and has become a significant donor to the GOP in recent years. Musk’s SpaceX and Starlink have donated satellite internet kits to assist with recovery efforts, and have made their services free for users in areas devastated by the hurricane. FEMA previously announced that it was dispatching SpaceX’s Starlink terminals to provide internet services to remote areas impacted by the storm.
Despite depending on federal agencies for significant revenue and various incentives for his companies, Musk has a history of provoking and clashing with various government entities. He has threatened to sue the FAA, criticized the EPA for penalizing SpaceX, and targeted other federal agencies in the past. Musk’s SpaceX and Tesla have both benefitted from federal programs that have provided loans, tax breaks, and subsidies. People affected by Tropical Storm Helene can apply for government assistance through the FEMA app, DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling a toll-free number.
As tens of thousands of individuals seek aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Musk’s false claims about federal agencies have gained traction on social media. Musk’s followers on X, which exceed 200 million, have been exposed to his inaccurate information about FEMA and the FAA. Former President Trump amplified Musk’s claims on his Truth Social platform, reaching an audience of nearly 8 million followers. Musk’s accusations against FEMA and the FAA have contributed to an escalating conflict with the U.S. government, despite his companies’ collaborations with federal agencies in the past.
Buttigieg’s direct response to Musk’s false claims aimed to prevent misinformation from damaging relief efforts in hurricane-affected areas. The clarification provided by Buttigieg regarding airspace restrictions and rescue operations was intended to reassure the public and encourage cooperation with federal agencies. Musk’s willingness to confront government agencies through social media has the potential to impact critical disaster response efforts in regions affected by Hurricane Helene. By engaging in public disputes with federal entities, Musk risks undermining the support and resources needed for effective disaster relief.
