Elon Musk Sparks AI Debate Over Stargate Initiative
Elon Musk has raised doubts about the funding behind the Stargate initiative, a $500 billion AI project announced by President Donald Trump. The initiative aims to develop new AI data centers across the U.S.
The project involves three key figures:
- Masayoshi Son (SoftBank CEO) – Managing financial support.
- Sam Altman (OpenAI CEO) – Providing AI expertise.
- Larry Ellison (Oracle Executive Chairman) – Overseeing the construction of the AI centers.
All three joined President Trump on January 21 when he officially introduced the initiative.
Musk vs. Altman: A Funding Dispute
Musk claimed that the Stargate initiative lacks the necessary funding, leading to a disagreement with Sam Altman. Altman denied Musk’s claim, saying the funding is already secured and that construction has begun.
Larry Ellison also confirmed that work is well underway, with 10 data centers (each 500,000 square feet) already under construction in Abilene, Texas, and 10 more planned.
Musk, who now leads Trump’s government efficiency advisory board (DOGE), has a tense history with Altman. He is also involved in a lawsuit against OpenAI.
Trump Responds to Musk’s Criticism
When asked about Musk’s concerns, Trump dismissed the issue, suggesting that Musk’s comments may be personal.
“It doesn’t. He hates one of the people in the deal,” Trump said. “People in the deal are very, very smart people. But Elon, one of the people he happens to hate. I have certain hatreds of people, too.”
Regarding the funding concerns, Trump remained neutral but hopeful:
“I don’t know if they do, but you know, they’re putting up the money. The government’s not putting up anything, they’re putting up money. They’re very rich people, so I hope they do.”
A Trump adviser even speculated that this public disagreement could mark the end of Musk’s influence in Trump’s circle:
“The end may be in sight,” the adviser said.
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