By now, many are fed up with the endless predictions of what the Nov 5 US presidential election might bring.
Depending on which camp you listen to, doom and gloom will befall America should the other side win. It doesn't help that pollsters offer no clue with their "too close to call" predictions.
This week, Mr Larry Fink, chief executive of Black Rock, the world's largest asset manager, captured this fatigue perfectly when he said he was "tired of hearing this is the biggest election of your lifetime", adding that "over time, it doesn't matter".
But here's a prognostication that might still resonate: While the world fixates on Donald Trump and the upcoming election, it's Mr Elon Musk whose influence arguably extends even farther than the Republican nominee's - that we should be bracing ourselves for.
The world's richest man, now closely aligned with his political BFF, Trump, is the one whose growing power should truly concern us. Their bond seems to tighten as polling day draws near.
Mr Musk has been a constant presence in the race, most recently stirring controversy with his US$1 million (S$1.32 million) lottery- style giveaway to swing- state voters who sign his free-speech and gun-rights petition.
Adding to the tension, his political action committee (PAC) launched an online group on X on Oct 22, inviting users to report alleged voter fraud or irregularities - potentially turning the platform into a battleground for post-election disputes.
These moves make it clear Mr Musk is not just watching from the sidelines; he is fully in the thick of it. He s a Trump surrogate, a mega-donor - his PAC has already spent US$119 million this election - and an informal adviser, constantly stirring the pot online.
It begs the question: What does he hope to gain from his investment?
Denne historien er fra October 26, 2024-utgaven av The Straits Times.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra October 26, 2024-utgaven av The Straits Times.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
British novelist David Lodge was twice shortlisted for Booker Prize
British novelist David Lodge, who was shortlisted for the Booker Prize twice, has died at the age of 89, his publisher said on Jan 3.
A CITY FOR BABIES
After a successful experiment, The City of Babies Lab has opened a new permanent space dedicated to children aged from birth to 23 months.
Scientist Names 16 New Spider Species After Jay Chou's Songs
A Chinese scientist has named 16 new spider species after songs by popular Mandopop musician Jay Chou.
Actress JJ Jia Xiaochen upset with hubby for not remembering wedding anniversary
Chinese actress JJ Jia Xiaochen has grumbled about her husband, Hong Kong action star Louis Fan, on social media again.
Actress Chen Liping leaves Mediacorp after 40 years
Actress Chen Liping, a household name in the local entertainment industry, has left broadcaster Mediacorp after 40 years.
Raising four cats costly, but gives Rui En four times the joy
In this new series, The Straits Times speaks to pet-owning personalities about the trials and delights of raising their fur kids
Vet Talk Check that your pet is eating safely during the festive season
Pet ownership is on the rise in Singapore, with many families treating their furry companions as one of their own.
Learning to embrace change positively
On the last evening of our recent family holiday, my three children were having a boisterous conversation in the bedroom of the apartment we were staying in.
STRONGER, TOGETHER
Good parent-teacher relationships can boost a child's confidence and holistic development
Roaring Off To A-League Adventure
Tan makes Brisbane debut as sub in loss to Canberra on her return from knee surgery
