On Rising today, Amber Duke and Steven Olikara discuss why Elon Musk spent at least $250 million supporting Donald Trump’s reelection bid. Republican Sen. Joni Ernst (Iowa) continues withholding her support for Pete Hegseth to be the next secretary of defense. University of Michigan breaks away from a D.E.I. policy requiring incoming and tenured faculty to provide diversity statements. The hosts react to NFL star Aaron Rodgers opening up about losing family and friends over his views. “Y.M.C.A” co-writer Victor Willis endorses the tune to be played at Trump MAGA rallies. This, and more.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices