Elon Musk Exposes ‘Disgusting’ Motive Behind Biden Admin Leaving NASA Astronauts Stranded in Space
Elon Musk Alleges Political Motives Delayed Astronauts’ Return, Sparks Debate
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk claimed on The Joe Rogan Experience that the Biden administration rejected his offer to retrieve NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS) early, citing political reasons tied to the 2024 election. Musk suggested the decision aimed to avoid boosting Donald Trump’s image, stating, “They pushed the return date past the inauguration date… so Kamala Harris’ campaign wouldn’t be jeopardized.”
Starliner’s Technical Issues and Extended Stay
Williams and Wilmore arrived at the ISS on June 6 via Boeing’s Starliner, initially scheduled for an 8-day mission. However, propulsion system leaks and thruster failures stranded the duo indefinitely. NASA postponed their return multiple times, with the latest plan aiming for a March 19–20 landing via SpaceX’s Crew-9 capsule—extending their stay to over nine months. Musk emphasized SpaceX’s Dragon as the “only spacecraft considered safe enough” for their return.
[Image: Boeing Starliner docking with ISS]
Caption: Boeing’s Starliner faced technical issues, delaying the astronauts’ return.
Musk’s Allegations and Legal Battles
Musk linked the Biden administration’s stance to ongoing tensions, including a 2023 DOJ lawsuit accusing SpaceX of discriminating against asylum seekers in hiring. Though dismissed recently, Musk defended SpaceX’s compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which restricts rocket-related hires to U.S. citizens or green card holders. “It’s both legal and illegal to hire asylum seekers,” Musk told Rogan, criticizing the administration’s “antagonistic” approach.
[Image: Musk speaking on Joe Rogan’s podcast]
Caption: Musk claimed the DOJ lawsuit was politically motivated during his podcast appearance.
NASA and Astronauts Respond
Former NASA administrator Bill Nelson previously denied political influence, stating, “Politics has not played any part.” When asked about Musk’s claims, Wilmore responded, “Political reasons—I have not heard that… I’m not sure that’s the case.” Both astronauts dismissed feeling “stranded,” emphasizing confidence in NASA’s protocols.
[Image: Astronauts Williams and Wilmore inside the ISS]
Caption: Williams and Wilmore expressed trust in NASA’s decisions despite delays.
Broader Implications
Musk’s remarks follow his vocal support for Trump, highlighting the escalating rivalry between SpaceX and Boeing—a key contractor for NASA’s Artemis program. While Boeing struggles with Starliner’s setbacks, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon continues to dominate commercial spaceflight, reinforcing Musk’s influence in shaping space policy.
As the March return date approaches, the incident underscores the intersection of politics, corporate competition, and human spaceflight’s unpredictable challenges.
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