Maye Musk, the mother of Elon Musk, has recently undertaken several international trips to countries including China, Kazakhstan, and the United Arab Emirates. These visits coincide with a period of heightened interest from foreign leaders seeking to cultivate influence with the Trump administration.
At 76 years old, Ms. Musk has a long history of traveling for modeling, speaking engagements, and promoting her memoir. However, her recent travels appear to be more frequent, particularly outside the United States, as her celebrity status gains significance amid her son's considerable influence over military spending and foreign aid.
In late 2024, she made at least four trips to China, endorsing or modeling for seven brands, which included makeup products, down jackets, and massage devices. Her visits were highlighted by state media, which have previously reported her advocacy for improved U.S.-China relations.
In October, just weeks before the U.S. presidential election, she participated in a forum on women in Kazakhstan, discussing her son's achievements. Additionally, in January, prior to Donald J. Trump’s second inauguration, she spoke at a government conference in Dubai alongside Tucker Carlson, addressing her experiences raising her children, including Elon Musk.
These international engagements have taken place following Mr. Musk's endorsement of Trump's campaign, during which Ms. Musk has occasionally touched upon U.S. political matters. Countries such as China and Kazakhstan are eager for favorable trade relations, and the United Arab Emirates has significant defense ties with the U.S.
While Ms. Musk has traveled extensively for work, her recent activities in China have intensified, as indicated by a review of her social media posts. In the past year, she endorsed five Chinese brands, a significant increase from previous years when her trips were primarily focused on her book promotion and modeling.
There is no confirmation regarding her earnings from these international engagements. Although she often references her connection to her son, there is no evidence that she has attempted to influence U.S. policy or accepted work linked to the Chinese government.
Concerns have been raised about the potential for foreign governments to view her as a means to access her son, who is already under scrutiny for ethical concerns related to his business dealings, including those with the Pentagon. The FBI typically reviews the foreign contacts of presidential advisers and their families, especially with regard to nations viewed as U.S. adversaries.
It remains unclear whether Ms. Musk's activities have undergone such scrutiny. The White House has classified her son as a “special government employee,” yet details regarding his security clearance have not been disclosed.
Both Ms. Musk and her son have interests in China, which raises ethical questions about their international dealings. Observers note that given Mr. Musk's influential position, any foreign entanglements involving his family merit attention.
Ms. Musk has been prominent in public appearances alongside her son and has defended him in various forums. Her modeling career has gained traction alongside her son's success, reflecting a broader trend in the fashion industry towards inclusivity.
In China, her popularity has surged, particularly due to her relationship with Elon Musk. She has engaged with audiences on social media, where she has garnered 1.2 million followers, who often express admiration for her role as a mother.
Throughout her travels, she has participated in numerous events, including a recent appearance at New York Fashion Week, where she modeled for a Chinese brand. Ms. Musk has expressed a desire to expand her work into new countries this year.