Summary of FYPod Episode 10: "Citizens United Against Elon Musk"
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 10 of FYPod, titled "Citizens United Against Elon Musk," hosts Tim Miller and Cameron Casky tackle the evolving political landscape influenced by Gen Z’s support for Trump in the 2024 elections. They delve into the controversial role of Elon Musk in local elections, the implications of the Citizens United decision, and the dynamics of modern protest movements. This episode provides sharp insights into the motivations and actions of America's youngest voters and the forces shaping their political engagement.
Main Discussion: Citizens United and Election Interference
Tim Miller initiates the conversation by introducing Nicholas Jacobs, a Gen Z conservative and chairman of the Wisconsin College Republicans (CRS). Jacobs has recently locked his Twitter account amid a controversy surrounding the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court race.
Tim Miller [00:41]: “He’s the chairman of the Wisconsin CRS and he’s locked his Twitter feed because he’s engaged in a little bit of a controversy right now.”
Elon Musk’s Financial Influence
Musk's involvement is a central focus, with Miller highlighting that Elon Musk has invested at least $20 million to influence the Wisconsin Supreme Court race.
Cameron Casky [00:22]: “And probably way more, by the way, like 20 million that we can track.”
The hosts express skepticism about Musk’s motives and the legitimacy of his actions. Miller describes Musk’s appearance in Green Bay, humorously noting his cheese head, and questions the authenticity of Musk’s influence.
Tim Miller [01:24]: “He looked like the word that we can say again, but we don't say on this podcast. He looked very similar.”
Cameron Casky [02:27]: “I think it’s a real fucking coinky dink that one of the people who wins the million dollar, Elon Musk’s... prize happens to be a college Republican. Bull fucking shit.”
Legal and Ethical Implications
Miller and Casky discuss the potential legal ramifications of Musk’s actions, questioning whether this constitutes bribery or election fraud. They emphasize the necessity for an active investigation.
Tim Miller [03:26]: “I do feel like there should at least be an active investigation into this.”
Casky draws parallels between Musk’s financial influence and that of George Soros, suggesting that both are exploiting the Citizens United ruling to manipulate local elections.
Cameron Casky [07:13]: “Can we do an educational moment?... Citizens United is just basically a corruption law that allows elections to be bought and sold.”
Citizens United Explained
Miller provides an overview of the Citizens United decision, explaining its origins and how it permits corporations and wealthy individuals to exert significant influence over elections.
Tim Miller [09:33]: “Citizens United is... election experts say that this is a crime. Like you’re not allowed to bribe people to turn out and vote.”
Casky elaborates on the broader implications, noting that it allows not just individuals but organizations to wield corporate power in elections.
Cameron Casky [10:52]: “Citizens United isn't just about individuals. It's suggesting that organizations, groups of people together have free speech.”
Democrats' Strategy Against Oligarchy
The conversation shifts to how Democrats can counteract the oligarchic influence in politics. Casky suggests that embracing an anti-oligarchy stance and building grassroots support is crucial, given that Democrats cannot outspend Republicans.
Cameron Casky [13:28]: “The only thing we can do is build populist support. And I understand all these warnings against populism, but sometimes you do have to fight fire with fire.”
Tesla Protests: Vandalism vs. Effective Activism
Transitioning to Tesla protests, Miller references a discussion with John Lovett about the effectiveness of non-violent protests compared to vandalism. Casky criticizes the vandalism of Tesla vehicles, arguing that it is counterproductive and provides authorities with justifications for authoritarian measures.
Cameron Casky [15:07]: “They’re calling this shit terrorism now, and it’s obviously insane to do that.”
Impact on Public Perception and Corporate Reputation
Casky humorously critiques the absurdity of protests turning into what he describes as “improv games,” diluting the message and making activism appear theatrical rather than impactful.
Cameron Casky [18:33]: “It went very poorly because we did not know how to communicate with people who are not from affluent areas.”
He underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of protests to ensure they contribute to meaningful change rather than becoming disorganized and ineffective.
Gen Z News Segment: Streaming Habits and Workplace Dynamics
In the Gen Z News segment, presented by Sebastian, a new survey from Tubi reveals that 84% of Gen Zers admit to streaming shows and movies while working from home. Additionally, 48% have lied to their bosses about it, and 52% prefer not to return to the office to maintain their streaming habits.
Sebastian: “84% of Gen Zers admit to streaming shows and movies while working from home.”
Work-Life Balance Challenges
Miller and Casky reflect on their own streaming habits, discussing how modern workplace expectations and the blurring of work-life boundaries contribute to Gen Z's reliance on streaming as a coping mechanism.
Tim Miller [26:38]: “It’s like if you started to work in the 1980s and you left the office at 5 o'clock, people did not have any way of contacting you.”
Casky shares his personal experience with ADHD and how an enjoyable work environment can reduce the need for distractions.
Cameron Casky [24:38]: “I have adhd and therefore focusing on work and focusing on some sort of streaming doesn’t really work with me.”
Maintaining Productivity and Mental Health
The hosts discuss the importance of a supportive work environment in fostering productivity and mental well-being, contrasting this with previous, less fulfilling jobs that drove them to seek distractions.
Conclusion
As the episode concludes, Miller and Casky tease an upcoming interview with a Gen Z congressional candidate, aiming to provide diverse perspectives and engage new listeners. They emphasize the importance of strategic protest methods and maintaining focus on meaningful political engagement.
Cameron Casky [22:35]: “We know this. A lot of, like, liberal people do it too. Like, you see protesters going crazy on the street and they think it’s embarrassing and kind of funny.”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Tim Miller [00:41]: “He’s the chairman of the Wisconsin CRS and he’s locked his Twitter feed because he’s engaged in a little bit of a controversy right now.”
- Cameron Casky [02:27]: “I think it’s a real fucking coinky dink that one of the people who wins the million dollar, Elon Musk’s... prize happens to be a college Republican. Bull fucking shit.”
- Cameron Casky [08:48]: “Citizens United is just basically a corruption law that allows elections to be bought and sold.”
- Tim Miller [09:33]: “Citizens United is... election experts say that this is a crime. Like you’re not allowed to bribe people to turn out and vote.”
- Cameron Casky [13:28]: “The only thing we can do is build populist support. And I understand all these warnings against populism, but sometimes you do have to fight fire with fire.”
- Cameron Casky [15:07]: “They’re calling this shit terrorism now, and it’s obviously insane to do that.”
- Cameron Casky [18:33]: “It was really bad and I think it’s bad for the party.”
- Sebastian: “84% of Gen Zers admit to streaming shows and movies while working from home.”
Final Thoughts
Episode 10 of FYPod provides a comprehensive analysis of the intersections between Gen Z’s political behavior, corporate influence in elections, and the effectiveness of contemporary protest methods. Through engaging dialogue, personal anecdotes, and critical insights, Tim Miller and Cameron Casky shed light on the challenges and motivations shaping the youngest voters in America today.