Elon Musk, never one to shy away from a high-stakes battle, has set his sights on reclaiming OpenAI, the company he helped co-found before parting ways in 2019. According to multiple reports, Musk has made a staggering $97.4 billion bid to acquire the company behind ChatGPT, an offer that would cement his control over one of the most powerful AI organizations on the planet.

Musk vs. OpenAI: A Bitter Feud

Musk’s relationship with OpenAI has been anything but smooth. Originally involved as a co-founder, he left amid internal disagreements over the company’s direction. Since then, he has been one of OpenAI’s most vocal critics, particularly as the company transitioned from a non-profit to a for-profit entity and deepened its ties with Microsoft. Musk has repeatedly accused OpenAI of straying from its original mission of democratizing AI and has even sued the company, claiming it prioritizes corporate profits over public benefit.

Now, rather than just complaining from the sidelines, he’s looking to take matters into his own hands.

The $97.4 Billion Bid, A Serious Offer or a Power Move?

Musk’s bid, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, comes at a time when OpenAI is at the height of its influence. The company’s AI models, including ChatGPT, have reshaped industries, and Microsoft’s deep-pocketed backing ensures that OpenAI remains a dominant force in artificial intelligence.

Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, has already rejected the offer, making it clear that the company is not for sale, not even for Musk’s billions. “We remain committed to our mission and have no interest in selling,” Altman stated, per Ars Technica.

This hasn’t stopped speculation that Musk could attempt a hostile takeover, leveraging investors or legal action to gain control. Sound familiar? His past takeover of Twitter (now X) started with a massive buyout offer before evolving into a hostile battle.

Why Does Musk Want OpenAI?

Musk’s motivations go beyond just reclaiming an old project. He has repeatedly voiced concerns about the trajectory of AI development and has framed his own AI company, xAI, as a “truth-seeking” alternative to OpenAI. If he were to take over OpenAI, it could:

Give him direct control over the world’s leading AI models, positioning him to steer AI development in a way he deems ethical (or at least, in line with his vision). Sever OpenAI’s relationship with Microsoft, which he has criticized for exerting too much influence over AI research. Bolster his broader AI ambitions, integrating OpenAI’s technology into his existing ventures like Tesla, X, and xAI.

Another Piece in Musk’s Power Grab?

Musk’s attempt to acquire OpenAI isn’t just about controlling artificial intelligence, it’s part of a broader pattern of consolidating power over some of the most influential technologies and institutions of the modern era. His recent maneuvers with the Department of Government Efficiency (or short DOGE), where he has reportedly been locking federal officials out of critical systems while exerting control over government contracts, show that he is willing to use influence and leverage to reshape industries and governance in his favor.

If he succeeds in acquiring OpenAI, it wouldn’t just be a victory for his AI ambitions, it would mark another step in his growing control over sectors that shape the future, from government infrastructure to space exploration to the very fabric of AI-driven decision-making.

OpenAI may have rejected his bid for now, but the real question remains: how far is Musk willing to go to get what he wants?