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Elon Musk Teases MSNBC Purchase, Sparking Billionaire Buzz and Media Shake-Up Speculation
Edited by: TJVNews.com
Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency in the upcoming administration of President-Elect Donald Trump, has sparked controversy yet again with his scathing remarks about MSNBC. According to a report on CNN, Musk has labeled the liberal cable news channel as “the utter scum of the Earth” and accused it of peddling “puerile propaganda.” In recent days, he’s gone a step further, declaring that “MSNBC is going down” and posted memes suggesting he might purchase the network. While such comments might be dismissed as Musk’s characteristic flamboyance, they have stirred unease among MSNBC staffers, particularly against the backdrop of Trump’s reelection campaign and the forthcoming reorganization of Comcast’s cable assets.
Check out @maddow having a meltdown over @elonmusk MSNBC meme 😭
I’m never leaving X 🤣#MSNBC #RachelMaddow #Musk pic.twitter.com/i8pa9o5yHv
— ˜”*°•..MAGA 🇺🇸 ASTROS GAL•°*”˜⚾️ (@VinoNStrosGal) November 24, 2024
CNN’s sources reveal that Musk’s provocations coincide with the announcement of Comcast’s decision to spin off several cable channels, including MSNBC, into a new entity dubbed “SpinCo.” Although there is no official indication that MSNBC is for sale, the network’s future is generating speculation, not least because Musk’s comments are fueling anxiety about its trajectory under Trump’s potential second term. The CNN report indicated that some benevolent billionaires with progressive inclinations have already contacted MSNBC insiders to express interest in purchasing the channel should it become available. This interest has offered some reassurance, countering fears that Musk or other Trump-aligned figures might emerge as prospective buyers.
Do you support Elon Musk buying MSNBC and making it a non-biased news network?
Joe Rogan says he would like to have Rachel Maddow’s job if Elon Musk buys MSNBC.
YES or NO?
If YES, I will follow you back! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/bZC4o71n3N
— Joseph Menslage (@KCMagazine) November 25, 2024
However, Comcast has categorically denied any plans to sell MSNBC. The CNN report highlighted that Comcast CEO Brian Roberts could have easily sold the network in the past if that had been the company’s intent. Instead, the decision to move MSNBC and other channels into SpinCo—a pure-play cable programming company—is seen as a strategy to enhance shareholder value. According to CNN, this structural shift aims to address the pressures on traditional cable programming while maintaining profitability for both Comcast and SpinCo. Comcast projects that this spinoff process will take about a year to complete.
Very sad person, why she makes that much money shows you how stupid NBC bosses are , Musk should buy MSNBC and fire that dumb ass democrat . pic.twitter.com/Zoq8ixpTs7
— Ray (@grace_bosc39027) November 24, 2024
The timeline complicates any immediate speculation about an MSNBC sale. As the CNN report notes, SpinCo’s tax-free structure introduces constraints; any divestment of assets immediately following the spinoff could trigger significant tax liabilities. Morgan Stanley analyst Benjamin Swinburne explained in a note to investors—quoted by CNN—that a two-year waiting period is generally required to preserve the tax-free nature of such spinoffs. Swinburne added, however, that certain industry consolidation scenarios might accelerate the timeline.
Will Elon Musk buy MSNBC?
I say, DO IT! pic.twitter.com/FAENggTCCu
— Grok’s Based Memes (@groksmemes) November 22, 2024
According to the information provided in the CNN report, SpinCo’s leadership is more inclined to acquire additional channels than to sell off existing ones. Executives involved in the spinoff see MSNBC’s loyal audience as a strategic asset, particularly in negotiations with cable distributors. For them, the priority is leveraging the network’s brand strength rather than considering its divestment.
Elon Musk looks set to buy MSNBC pic.twitter.com/wgoaI6GOXT
— JonC Memes (@JonCovering) November 24, 2024
Contrary to Musk’s rhetoric, CNN’s sources suggest there is growing optimism within MSNBC about its future under the SpinCo structure. Staffers anticipate that the new entity will enable greater investment in MSNBC, CNBC, and other associated brands, bolstering their competitive edge in a challenging media landscape. This renewed focus on growth and innovation stands in stark contrast to Musk’s narrative of impending decline.
Why is CNN afraid of Musk purchasing MSNBC?
They’re afraid of losing their Grip. They’re afraid of losing Control. They’re afraid of Competition. pic.twitter.com/8EuJe1ZdjX
— Sam Mitha (@MithaEXP) November 25, 2024
According to CNN, the online interactions of Musk gained momentum when Joe Rogan chimed in, joking that if Musk bought MSNBC, he’d like Maddow’s job. Rogan, misspelling Maddow’s name, quipped that he’d mimic her appearance and “tell the same lies.” These comments, shared among Musk, Rogan, and Donald Trump Jr., elicited an enthusiastic response from their followers. CNN also reported that by Sunday, Trump Jr. declared, “I think I started something here,” noting the widespread support for the idea. Politicians such as former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz added their voices, with Gaetz stating, “I 100 percent want this to happen.” While the exchanges may appear to be nothing more than mockery, CNN’s coverage called attention to the potential for these posts to reflect deeper societal concerns.
This one is truly beyond words @MSNBC pic.twitter.com/3fjjxdKRwE
— E’LonDre Musk (Parody) (@ZxyzzMemes) November 22, 2024
