Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently discussed a range of critical issues, including his views on Elon Musk’s involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), established under President Donald Trump. While Gates praised Musk’s focus on federal spending reforms, he raised concerns about the potential impact on global health initiatives.
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Gates expressed support for Musk’s efforts to address federal spending through the DOGE task force. Acknowledging the importance of reducing the national deficit, he stated, “I’m among the people who think the deficit needs to be brought down because otherwise, it will create a financial problem for us.”
However, Gates cautioned against taking extreme measures, stressing the need to protect vital programs like HIV treatment initiatives. “If you cut those off, not only would people die when we have a cure on its way, but the negative feelings in regions like Africa would be worse than never having done the thing at all,” he warned.
Gates also commented on Musk’s growing influence in European politics, describing his involvement as “populist stirring.” In a separate interview with The Sunday Times, Gates criticized Musk’s support for far-right movements, such as Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, and questioned the role of wealthy individuals in foreign elections. “It’s insane that he can destabilize the political situations in countries,” Gates said. He urged nations to consider safeguards against election interference by foreign billionaires, adding, “In the U.S., foreigners aren’t allowed to give money; other countries maybe should adopt similar measures.” Referring to Musk’s alleged political stances, Gates remarked, “You want to promote the right wing but say Nigel Farage is not right wing enough. I mean, this is insane. You are for the AfD.”
Gates also touched on personal topics, revealing in his upcoming memoir, Source Code: My Beginnings, that he may have been diagnosed with autism if assessed today. The memoir, set for release in February, explores his childhood and formative years.
Addressing Musk’s broader ambitions, Gates admitted to donating $50 million to Kamala Harris’s campaign but expressed no desire to exert political influence on Musk’s level. While recognizing Musk’s intelligence, Gates cautioned against overstepping boundaries, stating, “We can all overreach.” He added, “If someone is super-smart, and he is, they should think about how they can help out. But this is populist stirring.”
Gates concluded with guarded optimism regarding Musk’s role in Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, noting its potential to reduce the national debt while reiterating the importance of a balanced approach.