Elon Musk has drawn a sharp line in the political sand, openly criticizing former President Donald Trump’s major tax-and-spending bill — the GOP’s legislative crown jewel — as a “disgusting abomination.”
The billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX made the statement Tuesday on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), marking a bold and rare public rift between one of the Republican Party’s most high-profile donors and its most powerful political figure.
Musk Breaks with Trump
“This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination,” Musk posted. “Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong.”
His sharp criticism comes just days after a warm farewell from the Trump White House, where Musk wrapped up his role leading the Department of Government Efficiency. But now, he’s turning on the very administration he helped support.
Musk didn’t stop there. In another post, he urged Americans to oust lawmakers who backed the bill: “In November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.”
What’s in the Bill — And Why Musk Hates It
The legislation — already passed in the House and now being debated in the Senate — seeks to extend Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and introduce new ones. It also includes a massive $350 billion boost for border security, deportation efforts, and defense.
To help cover the cost of over $4.5 trillion in tax breaks, Republicans propose slashing federal spending. This includes tighter work requirements for some welfare programs and a rollback of subsidies that benefit green energy and electric vehicles — including those from Musk’s company Tesla.
Musk, whose businesses rely heavily on federal contracts and clean energy incentives, has reason to worry. A reduction in EV-related funding could hit Tesla hard.
Testing GOP Loyalty: Trump vs. Musk
While Trump remains the dominant force in Republican politics — especially in primary elections — Musk’s comments add a new layer of complexity for GOP lawmakers. They now find themselves torn between Trump’s expectations and the influence of one of their biggest financial supporters.
“Elon Musk criticizing the GOP’s flagship bill isn’t helpful,” said Republican strategist Alex Conant. “But Trump still controls the party. Musk’s influence doesn’t match his.”
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) echoed that view: “No matter what Elon Musk or anybody else says… it’s still going to be second fiddle to President Trump.”
Some Republicans Agree with Musk
Despite the backlash, a few Republican senators aligned with Musk’s concerns. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) posted, “We can and must do better.” Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) also chimed in, blaming “excessive” spending for inflation and government overreach.
Democrats Embrace Musk’s Message
Oddly enough, Musk’s fiery take has found support from the other side of the aisle.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) stood next to a blown-up screenshot of Musk’s post during a press conference, proudly declaring, “We’re in complete agreement.”
Democrats are fiercely opposed to the GOP’s plan to cut Medicaid, food stamps, and green energy funding to pay for the tax breaks. Many lawmakers are already facing tough questions at town halls across the country.
Where Does Musk Go From Here?
While Musk says he’ll reduce political donations going forward, he’s left the door open to getting involved again “if I see a reason.”
This isn’t the first time Musk has tried to sway legislation. Earlier this year, he pushed Republicans to back away from a government shutdown deal, a move that eventually led to a reworked bipartisan agreement.
But this latest clash may be Musk’s biggest political gamble yet. Taking aim at Trump’s signature economic agenda could cost him support within the GOP — or change its direction entirely.
For now, the Senate is still weighing the bill, and Musk’s megaphone has made sure it won’t pass quietly.
