Hey followers, Nuked here! Today, let’s explore how tech giants from Silicon Valley are shaping Washington’s policies and contracts in unexpected ways.

Elon Musk isn’t solo in wielding huge influence over government agencies. Since Trump’s term began, over thirty individuals linked to Musk, Thiel, Andreessen, and Luckey have taken roles in federal departments, steering billions in contracts their way. Since Trump’s inauguration, these companies have snagged around $6 billion in federal deals, with aspirations for much more.

This tight-knit network operates across offices overseeing regulation, policy, and direct business awards, raising eyebrows over potential conflicts of interest. Many wonder if laws meant to prevent government officials from profiting personally are being bypassed. Musk’s circle, in particular, has moved into government roles at an unprecedented rate, including those in agencies regulating his own businesses.

TechCrunch has previously highlighted many of Musk’s associates involved in government, including nearly twenty more connected to his ventures like DOGE. The trend of trusted insiders filling these crucial roles sparks concerns about conflicts and ethical breaches.

Some defenders argue this talent infusion brings innovation to government functions—the same fresh thinking that drives Silicon Valley’s success. However, critics warn that favoritism and policy shifts favoring big corporations threaten fair competition and public interest. Recent examples include the CFPB stepping back from privacy rules and the firing of staff at agencies investigating autonomous vehicles, which could benefit Musk’s companies.

We also see a pattern of overlap in business and government. Musk’s SpaceX benefits from contracts and collaborations with Thiel’s fund and Andreessen’s firm, fueling a web of intertwined interests. Government agencies from the FAA to the military are dotted with employees from Musk’s network, sometimes holding dual roles or ethics waivers to work in both worlds.

This concentration of wealth and power carries risks for the economy and democracy, as government decisions may become skewed to protect specific industries instead of fostering competition or serving the public good.

Stay tuned as this story unfolds—big questions remain about the balance between talent, influence, and fair play in the corridors of power.