Thiel's company, Palantir, counts the US government as its biggest client, focusing on counterterrorism efforts and immigration enforcement. Thiel has also made significant political contributions to various politicians and causes, including the Republican National Committee and GOP-aligned groups. Despite his conservative leanings, he has also donated to some Democrats, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom and Silicon Valley representative Ro Khanna.
Key takeaways:
- Peter Thiel, a tech billionaire and conservative kingmaker, has significant influence in Washington, with connections to powerful political players and government contracts through his co-founded company, Palantir.
- Thiel has mentored several influential figures, including JD Vance, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sam Altman, and has invested in their respective ventures.
- Despite a strained relationship with Elon Musk, Thiel invested $20 million in SpaceX and credited Musk for making other Silicon Valley leaders comfortable supporting President-elect Trump.
- Thiel's political contributions extend beyond his notable donations to Vance, Masters, and Trump, including donations to both Republican and Democratic politicians.