Elon Musk becomes biggest known donor in midterm races, AP reports

Elon Musk has quietly become the biggest known donor in the midterm election contests, according to The Associated Press, as he works to help Republicans. The reporting places the billionaire at the center of the money flowing into races that will determine control of Congress.

AP described Musk's role as a quiet one, standing apart from the more public political activity he has engaged in previously. The outlet's account indicates his spending in the midterms is now large enough to make him the single largest known contributor on either side.

Musk is the world's wealthiest person, leading Tesla and SpaceX and owning the social media platform X. He was also a prominent spender in the 2024 election cycle, when he backed Donald Trump's campaign and other Republican candidates.

Midterm elections fall two years into a presidential term and traditionally serve as a referendum on the party holding the White House. Musk's effort to lift Republicans comes as both parties prepare for those contests.