Musk suggested that the country would prosper if Republicans “stayed out of people’s bedrooms” and Democrats stayed “out of people’s wallets,” according to attendees.

He celebrated free markets and warned of the dangers of socialism — messages that were well-received by the audience.

Asked by a donor what the Republican Party needed to do better, the South-African born Musk replied that it should be more compassionate to potential newcomers, noting that he chose America because of its opportunities. Immigrants, he said, are vital to maintaining a dynamic economy.

Before the dinner, Musk tweeted: “To be clear, I support the left half of the Republican Party and the right half of the Democratic Party!”