Tensions between Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump have escalated sharply after Musk launched a blistering critique of a major Congressional spending bill championed by Trump’s administration.
Just days after Musk departed from the controversial White House advisory role on government efficiency, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO took to X to condemn the legislation as a “disgusting abomination” laden with “massive, outrageous, pork-filled” expenditures.
The bill under scrutiny proposes to add approximately $3 trillion to the U.S. deficit over the next decade, despite enacting deep cuts to critical health and food aid programs. Musk warned that this legislation would saddle American citizens with “crushingly unsustainable debt,” marking his strongest public rebuke of Trump’s economic agenda to date.
This criticism follows a period of growing disillusionment from Musk, who had earlier offered more measured concerns about the bill undermining his personal cost-cutting priorities.
Musk’s souring relationship with the Trump administration reportedly stems from multiple frustrations: the proposed bill cuts the electric vehicle tax credit, a blow to Tesla, and he failed to secure extensions to his advisory role beyond the statutory 130-day limit.
Additional setbacks include the rejection of his satellite Starlink system for air traffic control and the withdrawal of a Musk ally’s NASA chief. Despite Musk’s nearly $300 million donation to Trump’s 2024 campaign, these disappointments have cast a shadow over the alliance.
The White House, via Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, responded swiftly, emphasizing that President Trump remains steadfast in his support for the bill despite Musk’s criticisms.
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed disappointment over Musk’s comments, noting a recent conversation in which Musk appeared to understand the bill’s intentions.
This public clash between one of the world’s most influential tech entrepreneurs and a former president underscores the complexities at the intersection of politics, business, and policy.
It also highlights the delicate balancing act for Trump, who relies heavily on support from younger, tech-savvy voters, where Musk wields significant influence.
As legislative debates continue, the evolving dynamic between Musk and Trump will remain a focal point for observers of both politics and innovation.
