Elon Musk issued a stern warning on Monday to Republican lawmakers who supported President Donald Trump's ambitious tax initiative, known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill," which was approved by the U.S. Senate with a price tag of $3.3 trillion. "Every Congressional member who campaigned on cutting government spending and then voted for the largest debt increase in history should hang their heads in shame," Musk declared on his X account (previously Twitter). "And you will lose the primaries next year, even if it's the last thing I do on this Earth," he added defiantly.
The massive fiscal plan, passed with Vice President JD Vance's tie-breaking vote, was celebrated by Trump during an event in Florida. However, it has sparked sharp division within the Republican Party itself. While party leaders advocate for tax cuts and industrial incentives, conservative and moderate factions are questioning the negative impacts on Medicaid and employment.
Escalating Tensions Between Two Powerhouses
Musk, who had previously described the plan as "absolutely insane and destructive," intensified his criticism by targeting lawmakers who, despite their austerity rhetoric, supported what he views as a reckless expansion of public spending. Analysts see Musk's comments as a direct threat to members of the "Freedom Caucus" as well as moderate figures who facilitated the plan's passage.
The clash between Musk and Trump has escalated in recent weeks. Initially, their relationship was pragmatic at the start of Trump's second term, but it has now evolved into an open political conflict. Trump, who bid farewell to Musk with kind words at a White House press conference after considering his mission at DOGE completed, has since accused him of being "disloyal" and has threatened to withdraw federal funding from his companies, even mentioning potential deportation.
Their confrontations have continued since. In June, Musk launched multiple attacks against Trump, publicly calling for his impeachment, linking his name to Epstein's files, and suggesting the president was "out of control." Although Musk later attempted to soften his tone, stating "it's not personal," tensions flared again with the reemergence of the tax plan. Simultaneously, the entrepreneur has promoted the idea of a new political party challenging traditional bipartisanship, viewed as a direct challenge to Republican leadership.
In a recent interview, Musk hinted at using his X platform and business influence to support candidates who embody a "modern, technological, and ethical" vision for American politics. The exchange of attacks indicates that the rift between the two figures is likely irreversible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Musk's Political Stance
Why did Elon Musk criticize the tax bill?
Elon Musk criticized the tax bill because he believes it represents a reckless increase in debt and contradicts the fiscal responsibility many lawmakers campaigned on.
What are the implications of Musk's warning to lawmakers?
Musk's warning suggests he may use his influence to ensure those lawmakers lose their primary races, affecting their political careers.
How has Musk's relationship with Trump changed?
Their relationship has shifted from pragmatic collaboration to a public political conflict, marked by accusations and threats from both sides.