Two figures stand out as the central pillars of right-wing power and influence in America: Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

While Trump remains the undisputed leader of the MAGA movement, the significance of Musk’s role is often overlooked by those outside its sphere.

But why has Musk, a controversial figure known for his unconventional behavior and ventures, garnered such prominence within the right-wing community?

The answer lies in his unique position as the gatekeeper of the right-wing public square, wielding immense influence through his social media platform, X.

Losing ground

Recent analysis by The Righting using Comscore data reveals a stark reality: traditional right-wing media outlets are losing ground, with significant declines in web traffic over the past four years.

While platforms like Newsmax and Fox News have managed to retain some audience, others have experienced staggering losses, with some unable to even measure their dwindling reader numbers.

In this landscape, social media platforms, particularly Musk’s X, have become the primary means through which right-wing figures reach their audience. Musk’s vast reach, boasting 174 million followers on X, has effectively positioned him as a central figure in shaping the discourse and narrative within the MAGA movement.

This shift towards social media as the primary arena for political engagement has profound implications.

It fosters a culture of short-form content and sensationalism, where provocative takes and outrage thrive. As a result, influencers like @Catturd2 command significant followings, eclipsing traditional conservative intellectuals.