Elon Musk’s Cross-Examination Reveals $38m Investment, $134bn Damage Claim
Elon Musk faced repeated admonishments from Judge Gonzalez Rogers during cross-examination by OpenAI counsel, who presented internal emails showing Musk’s awareness of profit plans and his $38m investment’s tax-deductible nature. Musk seeks removal of OpenAI’s for-profit structure, undoing its conversion and $134bn redistribution to the non-profit.
1. Cross-Examination Highlights
During rapid-fire questioning, OpenAI counsel introduced email exchanges indicating Musk’s early awareness of for-profit plans and pressed him on details. Judge Gonzalez Rogers repeatedly instructed Musk to answer yes-or-no and criticized his lawyer for leading questions.
2. Musk’s Allegations and Claims
Musk argues co-founders broke the original non-profit agreement by converting OpenAI into a for-profit entity and enriching themselves. He is demanding removal of Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, reversal of the for-profit structure and $134bn redistributed to the non-profit arm.
3. Courtroom Atmosphere
The courtroom was packed with attendees, and the judge threatened to shut down an overflow room over unauthorized photos. Musk’s demeanor shifted under cross-examination, with several tense exchanges and judge interventions.
4. Potential Impact on Tesla
While the case centers on OpenAI, prolonged litigation and public scrutiny of Musk’s leadership could influence investor sentiment toward Tesla. Market watchers will monitor whether distractions from Musk’s legal battles affect Tesla’s strategic focus.