Elon Musk launched a sharp attack on Trump’s spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination” that worsens America’s debt crisis. Musk’s comments on X came after the House passed the bill, awaiting Senate approval under tight Republican control.
The bill includes sweeping tax breaks, expanded defense funding, and a significant increase to the federal borrowing limit for the following year. Musk warned that the plan could push the national deficit to $2.5 trillion, burdening future generations with immense debt.
Musk’s posts targeted both Republicans and Democrats, accusing lawmakers of prioritizing pork-barrel spending over fiscal responsibility. He condemned House members who supported the bill and hinted at backing primary challengers in next year’s midterm elections.
Musk left the administration’s cost-cutting team, called Doge, last week after 129 days, marking a clear shift in his stance. While once aligned with Trump’s economic strategy, Musk criticizes it for ignoring long-term debt sustainability and fiscal discipline.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed the remarks, insisting Trump knows exactly where Elon Musk stands on the issue. Trump continues to refer to the measure as his big beautiful bill and wants it passed before the July 4 deadline.
Republican Speaker Mike Johnson defended the legislation, claiming Musk misunderstood its goals and ignored broader national security benefits. Johnson said he spoke with Musk by phone for 20 minutes and expressed surprise at the billionaire’s public criticism the next day.
Some speculate Musk’s anger stems from the FAA denying his proposal to use Starlink for air traffic control operations. The bill phases out electric vehicle tax credits, which could negatively affect Tesla, one of Musk’s key business ventures.
Senator Rand Paul joined opposition voices, vowing to vote no if the bill raises the $4 trillion debt ceiling. Trump attacked Paul on social media, calling his fiscal objections crazy and claiming Kentuckians can’t stand him. Despite growing backlash, Senate Republicans plan to proceed with the bill and finalize Trump’s spending bill before the holiday deadline.
