Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich, who served under President Bill Clinton, is calling on regulators to threaten American billionaire Elon Musk because he is “out of control,” Fox News reports.
“He may be the richest man in the world. He may own one of the most powerful social networks in the world. But that doesn’t mean we can’t stop him.” – Reich said.
After Musk acquired the social network Twitter, now rebranded as “X,” in 2022, Reich called the purchase “dangerous nonsense.” He claimed Musk’s purchase was “for power” and not for freedom of speech, the TV channel reports. Reich says global regulators are likely already considering threatening Musk with arrest, citing the arrest of Telegram’s CEO in France. Pavel Durova.
“Musk’s First Amendment free speech rights do not override the public interest,” Reich added.
The former Labor Secretary also suggested that the U.S. government terminate contracts with Musk’s Space X company.
“Why does the U.S. government allow Musk’s satellites and rocket launchers to become critical to the nation’s security when he shows complete disregard for the public interest? Why give Musk more economic power when he continually abuses it and shows disregard for the public good?” – said.
Earlier on August 30, Musk admitted he would limit travel around the world after French authorities detained Durov.
Durov was arrested on August 24 at Paris Le Bourget airport. He was facing charges related to a range of offences, including drug trafficking, crimes against children, money laundering and fraud. The Telegram team stressed in its statement that the platform complies with all EU laws, including the digital services law. In turn, the French president Emmanuel Macron He said Durov’s arrest had nothing to do with politics.
On 28 August, Durov was released on his own recognizance on bail of 5 million euros. The following day, it was reported that a Paris court had confiscated all of Durov’s passports during the investigation period. He must also reside in Paris, at an address determined by the court.
