• Steve Bannon publicly questions Elon Musk's influence and power within the MAGA movement.
• Bannon accuses Musk of lacking decision-making ability despite his financial contributions.
• The tension between Bannon and Musk escalated over differing views on H-1B visa reforms.
• Bannon claims victory in a "MAGA civil war," asserting that Musk's relevance is waning.

Former White House chief strategist and fervent supporter of Donald Trump, Steve Bannon, has made headlines by openly disputing Elon Musk's influence within the MAGA movement. In a conversation with Politico, Bannon expressed his disbelief that Musk does not wield substantial power, despite his significant financial commitment—reportedly $250 million—to support Trump's 2024 campaign. Bannon characterized Musk as lacking the “ability to actually make decisions” and emphasized that there’s a stark contrast between influence and power. "Musk has had some influence over Cabinet picks, but he doesn't have the former," Bannon stated during the discussion ([Politico](https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/14/bannon-on-musk-he-doesnt-have-that-much-power-00198060)). This ongoing feud intensified particularly around the controversial issue of H-1B visa reforms, where Musk, along with fellow supporters, advocated for changes designed to enhance opportunities for foreign workers. Bannon, however, positioned himself on the opposing side of the debate, arguing that such reforms diminish job opportunities for Americans. In the fallout, Musk appears to have softened his stance, acknowledging that the H-1B program is "broken" after facing backlash from the MAGA base, including figures like Bannon ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/bannon-claims-victory-in-maga-civil-war-as-he-knocks-musks-relevance/)). Bannon has been vocal about wanting to undermine Musk's standing within Trump's circle of influence, stating, "I will get Elon Musk kicked out by the time he’s inaugurated," asserting that Musk will no longer hold special status or privileges. His comments suggest a strategic move to position himself as a leader in the evolving dynamics of MAGA politics, insinuating that a significant shift must occur for Musk to be reintegrated successfully ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/bannon-claims-victory-in-maga-civil-war-as-he-knocks-musks-relevance/)). As the MAGA movement grapples with internal divisions, the battle between Bannon and Musk signifies a larger conflict regarding the direction of the movement and the role of influential figures within it. Bannon’s bold declarations underscore a fierce rivalry, where personal agendas and political ideologies clash, propelling questions about the future of Trump's influence and the MAGA brand itself.