The ongoing rift between Elon Musk and former ally Donald Trump escalated this week, as Musk launched a scathing attack on the president’s signature budget proposal, calling it “insane” and warning of its dire financial implications.
In a series of posts late Monday on X (formerly Twitter), Musk slammed the proposed bill, which seeks to raise the national debt ceiling by a staggering $5 trillion. He pledged to oppose any lawmaker who supports the legislation and even floated the idea of launching a new political movement — “The America Party” — if the bill passes.
Nicknamed the “Big Beautiful Bill” by Trump, the proposal includes sweeping tax cuts, the dismantling of several environmental programs, and increased funding for hardline immigration policies. Critics argue it would significantly expand presidential powers and leave lasting marks on U.S. governance.
Trump quickly responded on his platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday, threatening to launch a DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) investigation into federal subsidies received by Musk’s companies, including Tesla. Trump suggested that without these government incentives, Musk might be forced to “close up shop and head back home to South Africa.”
Notably, Musk led the DOGE agency until May, when tensions with the Trump administration came to a head and he abruptly resigned.
The clash highlights growing political divisions within conservative circles and raises questions about the future of both Trump’s legislative agenda and Musk’s potential political ambitions.
