Musk calls Economist editor 'traitor to the West'

Elon Musk called Zanny Minton Beddoes, The Economist's editor-in-chief, a 'traitor to the West' after she interviewed him on July 23, 2026.

The interview heated up when Beddoes challenged Musk's warnings of civil war in Britain and support for Germany's AfD party.

Beddoes disputed Musk's crime claims on CNBC, calling his statements to his 240 million followers 'irresponsible'.

Musk admitted he got 'too involved in politics' and defended his DOGE work as ensuring money was not wasted or spent on fraud.

Beddoes is the first female editor-in-chief in The Economist's 180-year history, holding the post since 2015, and is a former IMF employee.