In a stunning turn of events just hours before Election Day, the world’s premiere popular podcaster Joe Rogan officially endorsed former President Donald Trump, citing a compelling case made by tech mogul Elon Musk during a recent interview on The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan’s endorsement has garnered significant attention, particularly given the timing—on the eve of the election—and the context of the refusal by Vice President Kamala Harris to sit for an interview with Rogan earlier this year despite Trump’s participation and compliance.
Rogan’s decision to back Trump was largely influenced by an interview he conducted with Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who has become an influential figure in the political landscape. Musk made a passionate argument against what he views as the political and legal persecution of Trump by the Democratic Party.
During the interview, Musk expressed deep concerns over the “lawfare” being waged against Trump—referring to the legal battles Trump has faced since leaving office that many of his supporters and detractors alike believe are frivolous. He argued that the ongoing investigations into Trump and his allies were part of a broader political strategy by Democrats to target their opposition. Musk emphasized that if Trump loses the 2024 election, it could mark the end of free and fair elections in America.
Musk, during the podcast, spoke at length about the danger of what he views as the growing authoritarianism within the Democratic Party. “They decide that you’re the target, and then they figure out the crime afterwards,” Musk said, referring to the way Trump has been treated by the legal system and political opponents. This sentiment echoes Trump’s own rhetoric.
Rogan and Musk also discussed the broader issue of political polarization and the media’s role in shaping public perception. Musk warned that much of the electorate is being manipulated through misinformation and sensationalized narratives, especially when it comes to complex political issues. “They’re preying on low-information voters who aren’t engaged actively on social media, who don’t have the time to look through everything,” Musk said, a point that resonated with Rogan.
Joe Rogan’s endorsement could carry significant weight in the 2024 election cycle. As one of the most influential figures in podcasting and social media, his audience spans millions of people, many of whom are politically engaged but may not identify with either major party. Rogan has long positioned himself as an independent thinker and often speaks to a broad cross-section of American voters, making his support for Trump potentially impactful.
Rogan’s endorsement came shortly after Vice President Kamala Harris declined to sit for a three-hour interview with Rogan in Austin, Texas. Harris’s refusal to engage with Rogan—who is known for hosting a variety of political figures across the spectrum—further solidified the perception that the Democratic candidate is afraid of unscripted discussions and incapable of taking tough questions. Rogan’s frustration with coordinating with her team may have contributed to his decision to lend his support to Trump despite years of criticizing him and tiptoeing the lines of neutrality.
Just months ago, he insisted he’d never interview him, but changed his mind after the initial assassination attempt on Trump’s life.
The endorsement from Rogan—who appeals to a more independent and often libertarian-leaning audience—could help attract undecided voters who are looking for an alternative to the political establishment.
At a rally in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Trump acknowledged Rogan’s endorsement and expressed his gratitude. “Joe Rogan just endorsed me. Is that great? Thank you, Joe,” Trump said, clearly appreciative of the support. “That’s so nice. And he doesn’t do that stuff,” Trump added, referring to Rogan’s tendency to avoid traditional political endorsements.
It’s a little late for that now.