A Power Elite Alliance and Local Environmental Policy: Elon Musk in Cameron County

The present work analyzes several aspects related to the environmental impacts that Elon Musk’s company Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) has had on Cameron County, Texas. Utilizing prior studies, we will focus on how the power elite impact policy at the federal, state, and local levels, specifically regarding SpaceX’s arrival to Cameron County as well as environmental policy concerning the activities at the SpaceX Starbase facility, located on Boca Chica Beach, Texas. The present analysis uses data from semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including government officials, developers, environmentalists, and other activists in order to understand the connections between the global and local power elites. A survey of Cameron County residents will also be used to determine their experience with environmental effects resulting from SpaceX activities.