Tesla Inc. (TSLA) and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SPCX) CEO Elon Musk has once again planted his flag on the intersection of artificial intelligence and economics, arguing that AI and robotics are the ticket to a universal high income for the masses.

Welfare State Could Bankrupt Countries

In a post on X on Monday, the billionaire quoted a post by a user that shared a quote by economist Milton Friedman, who argued that a "welfare state" and "free immigration" cannot exist at the same time.

"A welfare state and free immigration will obviously bankrupt any country," Musk said. "AI + robotics is the only path to universal high income for everyone on Earth," Musk said, expressing bullish sentiments on AI.

Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) recently called for a crackdown on immigration, as well as an end to supporting taxpayer-funded programs for certain noncitizens in the U.S., saying that the impact of illegal immigration is borne by border towns, hospitals, and legal immigrants.

Universal High Income Criticism

Musk, on multiple occasions, has faced criticism about his stance on AI enabling a Universal High Income stance, especially from lawmakers like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), who questioned how governments could fund universal basic income when billionaires like Musk were reluctant to support a 5% tax on their wealth.

Last month, Musk criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's plan to run city-owned grocery stores, saying that there would be no need for such an undertaking as AI and robotics would provide people with free goods and services. "AI & robots will actually deliver the free goods & services that those thieves pretend to offer," he said.

Meanwhile, the launch of Trump accounts for children born from 2025 through 2028 with $1,000 from the government has drawn support from Americans and billionaires. However, Elon Musk is not only refusing to donate but is actively urging other wealthy individuals to withhold their support.