Elon Musk’s recent declaration about his citizenship and residency has reignited debate around his political identity, national allegiance, and long-term vision for the United States. On January 3, 2026, a statement attributed to Musk and shared by the popular X account DogeDesigner went viral, with Musk reportedly affirming:
“I hold one passport now & forever: America. I will live & die here. Or Mars (part of America).”
The remark, characteristically blending nationalism with Musk’s spacefaring ambitions, comes at a moment of heightened scrutiny following his prominent role in the second Trump administration.
Context Behind Musk’s Statement
Musk’s declaration is widely interpreted as a definitive “America First” stance. Having served as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for several months in 2025, Musk became a polarizing political figure. His aggressive federal cost-cutting initiatives drew both praise and backlash, with critics questioning his loyalty and even calling for reviews of his citizenship status.
The statement also appears to respond directly to renewed legal and political scrutiny over Musk’s past immigration history particularly allegations surrounding his 1995 student visa status. On X, Musk has repeatedly pushed back against critics, using strong language such as “I will fight for and die in America” to reaffirm his commitment.
Surrendering Other Nationalities
Born in South Africa in 1971, Musk later emigrated to Canada in 1989 through his mother, gaining Canadian citizenship. He eventually moved to the United States, becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2002. While Musk has long held multiple national ties, his “one passport” claim suggests that he has either formally renounced or politically distanced himself from any nationality other than American.
“Mars (Part of America)” and the SpaceX Vision
The inclusion of Mars in Musk’s statement reflects his long-standing ambition to make humanity a multi-planetary species through SpaceX. Symbolically, it reinforces the idea that Musk sees future space colonization not as a break from Earthly geopolitics, but as an extension of American innovation, values, and leadership.
Implications for Business and Policy
Musk’s public alignment with the U.S. carries significant business implications. SpaceX is a major U.S. defense and aerospace contractor, while Tesla remains deeply tied to American manufacturing and energy policy. At a time when the U.S. is tightening regulations on advanced technology, exports, and foreign influence, Musk’s declaration sends a clear signal to regulators, investors, and policymakers: his companies are firmly rooted in America.
Elon Musk’s “one passport” statement is more than rhetoric. It represents a convergence of personal identity, political positioning, and strategic business signaling. Whether on Earth or Mars Musk is making it clear that he views his future, and humanity’s, as inseparable from America.
