A high-profile political disagreement is brewing between two of the most influential figures in America: Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump. The public exchange follows mounting tensions over a major federal spending bill currently under debate in the U.S. Senate.
Musk Criticizes the Bill and Its Supporters
On June 30, Elon Musk, now serving in an advisory role aimed at improving government efficiency, took to social media platform X to express serious concerns about a new spending bill supported by Trump and several Republican lawmakers.
The nearly 1,000-page legislation includes significant increases in defense spending, including a proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense program, as well as large-scale tax incentives. However, it has also drawn criticism for contributing to the growing national debt, which has reached $36.2 trillion, according to Reuters. Projections estimate that the bill could add an additional $3.3 trillion to that figure.
In his post, Musk wrote:
“Anyone who campaigned on the promise of reducing spending, but continues to vote for the largest debt ceiling increase in history, will be held accountable by voters.”
He also signaled that he intends to support political challengers to lawmakers who support the bill in upcoming primaries.
Trump Responds on Social Media
Trump, who had recently spoken favorably of Musk during a television interview, responded on his Truth Social platform. He addressed Musk’s criticism by reiterating his opposition to electric vehicle mandates, which have been a point of disagreement between the two.
“Electric cars are fine,” Trump wrote, “but not everyone should be forced to own one.”
Trump also referenced Musk’s business ventures, highlighting past government contracts and subsidies received by companies such as Tesla and SpaceX. He argued that reducing those expenditures could help cut federal costs.
Musk responded directly, writing:
“I am literally saying cut it all. Now.”
A Growing Political Divide
The exchange marks a notable shift in their relationship. Musk, once considered an informal adviser during Trump’s presidency, now appears to be charting a separate political course. He has voiced strong opposition to what he views as excessive government spending and hinted at broader dissatisfaction with both major parties.
In a separate post shared by several news outlets, Musk remarked:
“With the level of spending in this bill—potentially increasing the debt ceiling by $5 trillion—it feels like we are in a one-party system. There’s a need for a new political movement that puts people first.”
It’s unclear whether this signals a formal political effort or a broader expression of frustration with the current system.
What’s Next for the Bill?
The Senate is currently reviewing the bill, with a 20-hour window for debate and amendments. If passed, it will return to the House, where it narrowly advanced in an earlier vote. Trump has been actively promoting the legislation to his supporters, calling it a “historic” package that offers major tax cuts, boosts to border security, and expanded support for military personnel and veterans.
“The failure to pass this bill would lead to significant tax increases,” Trump warned in a recent post.
While both Musk and Trump continue to command large followings, their disagreement underscores deeper divisions within conservative politics—particularly around fiscal priorities, energy policy, and the role of government.
As the spending bill moves through Congress, all eyes are on how these differing visions for the country’s future will play out—on the Senate floor, online, and perhaps even at the ballot box.
