Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich has voiced strong criticism against Elon Musk, claiming the billionaire is "out of control" and calling for various measures to address his influence.

Reich suggested that regulatory authorities, government entities, and the public take decisive action to curb Musk's power, Fox News reported.

In a column published last Friday, Reich, who served under President Bill Clinton, argued that Musk, often cited as the world's wealthiest person, needs to be reined in. Reich's criticisms focus primarily on Musk's ownership of X, formerly known as Twitter, which Musk purchased in 2022. The former secretary described Musk's acquisition of the platform as "dangerous nonsense," implying that Musk's motives were driven by a desire for power rather than a commitment to free speech.

Six Steps Proposed to Limit Musk's Influence

Reich outlined six specific actions that he believes could help reduce Musk's influence. These actions include calling for the public to boycott Musk's companies, including Tesla and X. He also suggested that regulatory bodies around the world should consider more drastic measures, such as threatening Musk with arrest if he does not stop spreading misinformation and hate speech through his social media platform.

Reich argued that tech leaders are not above the law, citing a recent incident involving Telegram CEO Pavel Durov. Authorities arrested Durov at Le Bourget airport near Paris as part of an investigation alleging that his platform was used for illegal activities, including child sexual abuse material and drug trafficking. French authorities accused Durov of allowing these activities to occur and of not cooperating with ongoing investigations.

Comparing Musk to Other Tech CEOs

Reich suggested targeting Musk if he continues to allow false and harmful content on X. "Regulators around the world should threaten Musk with arrest if he doesn't stop disseminating lies and hate on X," Reich stated, drawing a parallel with Durov's situation.

He also proposed that the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) intervene directly. Reich recommended that the FTC demand Musk remove false information that could endanger individuals. If Musk refuses, Reich suggested the FTC could sue him under Section Five of the FTC Act to protect consumers from unfair or deceptive practices.

Questioning Musk's Influence on National Security

Reich's criticisms go beyond Musk's social media activities. He questioned why the U.S. government allows Musk's SpaceX technologies to play a significant role in national security. "Why is the U.S. government allowing Musk's satellites and rocket launchers to become crucial to the nation's security when he's shown utter disregard for the public interest?" Reich asked.

He expressed concern that Musk's growing economic power and disregard for public welfare pose a significant risk. Reich urged the U.S. government to reconsider its contracts with SpaceX, arguing that further empowering Musk's ventures is not in the public's best interest.

Impact on the Upcoming Presidential Election

Looking ahead to the presidential election, Reich stressed the need for political actions to counter Musk's influence. He urged Americans to prevent Musk's endorsed candidate, former President Donald Trump, from winning. Reich believes that limiting Musk's influence requires both regulatory measures and political engagement.

Balancing Free Speech and Public Interest

Reich underscored the tension between free speech and the public good in his column. Although he acknowledged Musk's First Amendment rights, he argued that these do not override the public interest. "Musk's free-speech rights under the First Amendment don't take precedence over the public interest," he wrote, emphasizing the broader implications of Musk's actions.

Furthermore, Reich's call for action reflects growing concern about tech billionaires' power and influence. He proposes responses ranging from boycotts to regulatory interventions to galvanize both public and policymaker action against what he sees as a threat to democratic values.

Public Response and Ongoing Debate

Reich's comments have sparked debate about regulating tech moguls like Musk. Consequently, his proposals, including arrest and the termination of government contracts, will likely face scrutiny from those who prefer a hands-off approach.

Moreover, Reich's column highlights the consequences of unchecked power and fuels the ongoing debate about tech leaders' roles in society. His call to action underscores the urgency to address these challenges, signaling that the debate over tech giants is far from over.