1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The direct influence that unelected billionaires like Elon Musk are able to exert over the legislative process is deeply concerning for American democracy. Allowing the personal opinions and financial interests of the ultra-wealthy to derail negotiations and policy decisions undermines the fundamental principles of a government elected by and accountable to the people. Lawmakers should be beholden only to their constituents, not swayed by the voices and demands of the super-rich. Musk's intervention exemplifies how concentrated private wealth can distort the policymaking process in ways that threaten equal representation. Going forward, Congress must insulate itself from such undue influence and focus solely on serving the needs of ordinary Americans through good-faith negotiations, not the whims of billionaires on social media. Upholding democratic norms requires a firm commitment to separating private power from public governance.