With Elon Musk's Rise, Independent Journalism Is More Important Than Ever

Many of you have shared your concerns with me about Elon Musk’s rise in our government, and I share them. It’s why I wanted to take a minute tonight, as I lay in bed recovering from the flu, to chat with you about the importance of independent journalism, and why I will always stand up to Elon Musk, Donald Trump, DOGE, and whoever else. Because this is a special, extra piece, only paid subscribers will be able to comment, but everyone can read!

Right now, independent journalism is more important than ever. With Elon Musk not only owning a massive social media website, but also leading a psuedo government agency, there is a critical need for journalism that stands apart from corporate or individual agendas.

In recent months, we have seen how tech moguls have increased their grip on public discourse. As a result, it’s more vital than ever to understand why independent journalism is not only valuable, but vital for a healthy, informed society.

If you want to support my independent journalism, the easiest way to do so is by subscribing below:

Elon Musk's acquisition Twitter and his involvement in our federal government have raised questions about how concentrated power affects the narratives we consume. Because of Musk’s influence, along with his vast wealth and army of lawyers, traditional media organizations have been put on edge, with many questioning whether independent outlets can continue to thrive in a world where a few individuals control the flow of information. It’s why ABC News paid a massive settlement to Trump, and its why CBS released the full Kamala Harris 60 Minutes interview today.

This concentration of power isn’t just about who controls the platforms. It’s also about how platforms shape discourse. When billionaires like Elon Musk dominate digital spaces or billionaires like Jeff Bezos dominate print media, their personal biases and interests influence the way stories are presented and consumed. Whether it's the tech industry’s perpetual promotion of its own interests, or social media’s tendency to prioritize sensationalism, the public narrative is increasingly being shaped by those who stand to profit from it.

Here’s why independent journalism matters and why I do this work.

First, unlike corporate media, which is often influenced by advertising dollars or the interests of its owners (like Bezos), my work prioritizes truth above all. This Substack, and my channels, are not beholden to powerful corporate interests, and therefore, I am able to hold those in power accountable—whether it's Elon Musk, Donald Trump, or Tesla.

Second, my goal in this work is to build trust by providing consistent, fact-based reporting that isn't influenced by corporate or tech agendas. I try to give you the facts, black and white, as they come in, without bias. With misinformation running rampant in the modern information age, this trust is essential. Unfortunately, this trust lacks in mainstream media channels.

Third, having an independent press is essential in any functioning democracy. It allows for the free exchange of ideas, holds the powerful accountable, and provides citizens with the information necessary to make informed decisions.

As Elon Musk and others continue to steer powerful platforms, the need for independent journalism becomes more urgent. These tech giants increasingly shape how we interact with information—sometimes at the expense of truth, diversity, or accuracy. If outlets like mine cannot survive, we risk losing the ability to hear alternative viewpoints, challenge misinformation, and hold powerful figures to account. That’s what I have done, and that’s what I will always do. If you want to support my work, the easiest way to do it is by subscribing below:

See you in the morning.

Aaron