Elon Musk now leads as the most followed figure on Twitter, edging out Barack Obama in total subscribers
The account of the American billionaire and Tesla chair Elon Musk has become the most read and followed profile on Twitter. In recent measurements, Musk surpasses former US President Barack Obama in the number of subscribers, reflecting a dynamic shift in the platform’s follower landscape.
Current figures show Musk with a subscriber count in the vicinity of 133 million, while Obama trails closely. The follower tallies are visible on the homepage of each profile, illustrating a competitive gap that has narrowed or widened depending on platform activity and public events. This moment marks a notable milestone for Musk, given Twitter’s evolving role in public discourse and real-time information sharing.
The acquisition of Twitter by Musk for a substantial sum in late 2022 is widely cited as a turning point for the platform. Industry observers have noted that the purchase drew significant attention and may have contributed to a marked increase in Musk’s follower base relative to Obama. In the months following the deal, there were rapid changes that sparked intensified user engagement and media coverage, including high-profile discussions around platform direction and policy decisions.
Beyond posting memes and lighthearted content, Musk uses his Twitter presence to communicate about platform developments and solicit audience input on major decisions. Polls and surveys have accompanied discussions about key issues facing the service, including the potential reintroduction of prominent figures or changes in leadership roles. The cadence of updates and engagement strategies on Musk’s profile reflect a broader trend toward interactive governance of social platforms through public feedback.
Barack Obama, meanwhile, continues to use his account to share announcements about charitable initiatives, public events, and memories from his time in office. His activity tends to emphasize civic engagement and charitable endeavors, offering followers a lens into post-presidency activities and the ongoing impact of his work on social issues. The contrast between these two profiles highlights how former leaders and tech entrepreneurs leverage social networks for influence, outreach, and community-building on a global stage.
Overall, the current follower dynamics on Twitter illustrate how high-profile figures can attract large audiences, influence public conversation, and shape the platform’s cultural moment. As the landscape of social media evolves, observers watch how these profiles adapt their messaging, maintain relevance, and navigate the expectations of a diverse, international audience that includes users in North America and beyond.