Oct 19, 2026
Many commentators will soon surely claim it is a cynical power grab on Elon's part. I do not personally believe this-- it seems to me a genuine act of altruism. Still, it behooves the American people to express appropriate gratitude, then graciously reject this gift.
Of the many uniquely American features, possibly the most important and the most unique is self-reliance. Americans derived their dignity from their own independence since the first days of the Republic-- independence from the British crown, from our own government, from nobility, and from protection of other nations. This principle eroded over time to some degree, but it is still stronger here than anywhere else in the world. We should try hard to prevent it from further erosion.
It is unbecoming of American children to carry a mark of patronage from Trump accounts, Elon shares, Zuck dollars, or any other gifts from powerful benefactors, no matter how charitable. We should not be ungrateful, and should thank Elon for his altruism. But after the requisite courtesy there is only one possible response that preserves American independence and dignity. "We respectfully decline."