Elon Musk Calls for Shutdown of SPLC, Blasts Group as “Evil Organization”

 

Elon Musk has taken aim at one of the most powerful civil rights groups in America, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). Calling it an “evil organization” that “spreads hate propaganda relentlessly,” Musk demanded the group be shut down, sparking a firestorm online.

The comments came in a reply to conservative commentator Mike Cernovich, who questioned the SPLC’s ties to the FBI under new Director Kash Patel. Musk doubled down, citing the 2012 shooting at the Family Research Council as proof that SPLC’s designations put lives at risk. His post has already racked up millions of views on X, reigniting a long-running battle between conservatives and the SPLC.

This isn’t Musk’s first clash with the group. Earlier this year, he called it a “scam” after it labeled his America PAC as anti-immigrant. He has also accused the SPLC of smearing conservative groups while ignoring real extremists.

The SPLC quickly fired back in a statement, accusing Musk of trying to deflect from his own role in amplifying hate on X, where they say extremist content has surged since his takeover.

Online reaction was swift and divided. Supporters praised Musk for demanding accountability, while critics accused him of trying to silence watchdogs. Hashtags like #ShutDownSPLC and #DrainTheSwamp trended overnight, showing how deep the divide runs.

What comes next is unclear, but Musk’s influence, as both CEO of Tesla and a senior advisor in Trump’s inner circle, means his words carry weight. Whether this is political theatre or the beginning of a real push to strip SPLC of its power, the clash has already cemented itself as one of the most explosive moments of the government shutdown.