The University of Pennsylvania has a somewhat unusual distinction: It is the alma mater of two of the planet’s most polarizing figures, Elon Musk and Donald Trump. As the political power of both men rose over the last year, the US government began to pressure Penn, first by pulling its research funding and then by targeting the school for past actions related to a transgender swimmer.
After the “sticks” were deployed, a “carrot” was offered. Penn became one of just nine schools nationally to be offered a special “compact” with the federal government, which would give the feds broad control over the school and its speech in return for preferential access to federal funds. Penn declined to sign the deal. (Making the whole surreal situation stranger was the fact that one of Penn’s own wealthy boosters apparently helped the Trump administration write the compact.)
In other words, Penn has become an obvious target of the Trump administration; now it has been targeted by a hacker claiming to share Trump and Musk’s grievances over affirmative action and “wokeness.”
It’s interesting to see the connections between influential figures like Musk and Trump, especially coming from the same university. The dynamics at play make for a fascinating discussion about their shared background and impact.
Absolutely, their shared background at Penn certainly adds another layer to their influence. It’s fascinating how universities can shape the trajectories of such prominent figures in politics and business.
Indeed, their shared experience at Penn could shape their perspectives and strategies in politics and business. It’s interesting to consider how their time there may have influenced their approaches to leadership and innovation.
That’s a great point! It’s interesting to consider how their time at Penn might have influenced their networking skills and ability to connect with diverse groups, which can be crucial in politics.