2026 election elon musk in the media media media coverage national polling national report newsmax polling Jul 08, 2025
Byline: Olson Strategies Staff
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Dustin Olson, Managing Partner at Olson Strategies and pollster for American Pulse, joined Newsmax's National Report to discuss Elon Musk’s potential impact on American politics, including his new America Party and what recent polling reveals about voter attitudes toward third parties.
Olson explained that while voters often express a desire for third parties or independent candidates, there is frequently confusion about what these parties actually represent.
"In polls for a very long time, people always say they'd like to see a third party or they'd like to see independents run. But the problem always is that they don't know exactly what those parties stand for."
He noted Elon Musk's unique position with the financial resources and influence to potentially change that dynamic.
Olson speculated whether Musk's political efforts are a fleeting reaction or part of a calculated strategy consistent with his career in disruptive industries.
"Is this some sort of manic burst on Elon Musk's part, or is this what he's done over and over again his career where he's gone into completely different industries and he's changed the game? My guess is it's probably the last one."
He emphasized Musk's understanding of incentives and disincentives in politics and how this could pressure Republicans.
"He has understood incentives and disincentives work in politics. Most likely he knows he has to hold Republicans' feet to the fire and make sure they know that there's a chopping block on the other end if they don't get some of these cuts done."
Olson highlighted the potential for Musk’s political involvement to reshape the incentives for Republicans and the broader political landscape.
Whether Musk’s America Party becomes a serious force or remains a strategic threat, it introduces new dynamics that could influence policy and elections.
📈 For more polling insights, visit: PollingClub.com
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