Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s Relationship Hits a Rough Patch Over Spending Bill Controversy
In a stunning turnaround, tech billionaire Elon Musk has publicly severed ties with former President Donald Trump, following criticism of a controversial Republican spending bill. This fallout comes after Musk had previously supported Trump, notably after an assassination attempt on the former president during his 2024 campaign in Pennsylvania.
Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, took to his social media platform X to denounce the proposed spending bill, which the Congressional Budget Office estimates could increase the federal deficit by $2.4 trillion over the next decade. Musk described the bill as a “disgusting abomination,” citing its Medicaid cuts that would leave nearly 11 million people uninsured while disproportionately benefiting the wealthy through tax cuts.
Trump, responding during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, expressed disappointment over Musk’s change of heart, suggesting their friendship may be over due to the removal of electric vehicle subsidies from the budget. Despite Musk’s significant financial backing in Pennsylvania, Trump dismissed claims that this had any bearing on his electoral success.
The rift intensified as Trump threatened to cancel billions in government contracts benefiting Musk’s companies, citing it as a “way to save money.” This includes over $6 billion received by Tesla and SpaceX in federal aid and contracts. Following Trump’s remarks, Tesla shares dropped by 14%.
In retaliation, Musk announced on X that SpaceX would start decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft in response to Trump’s threat, which is pivotal for NASA missions.
With Republican senators also scrutinizing the spending bill’s implications on future generations, the discord between Musk and Trump highlights a significant shift in political alliances within conservative circles. The evolving dynamic raises questions about the future of support from influential figures like Musk in the Republican Party.
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