Former President Donald Trump has hinted at leveraging DOGE, the cost-cutting initiative spearheaded by Elon Musk, to scrutinize the billionaire’s businesses as their public feud over Trump’s budget proposal intensifies.
In a social media post, Trump remarked, “Elon might be the biggest subsidy recipient ever. Should DOGE investigate this? HUGE SAVINGS POSSIBLE!!!” This statement underscores the growing tension between the two, who were once allies.
Musk fired back, stating, “I’m literally advocating for TOTAL CUTS. Now.” The tech mogul has consistently opposed Trump’s expansive budget plan, arguing it contradicts his efforts to slash government expenditure.
This clash highlights a deepening rift, with DOGE potentially becoming a tool in their high-stakes disagreement over fiscal policy.
The public spat between Donald Trump and Elon Musk erupted last month, marked by heated exchanges before Musk softened some of his criticisms.
As Congress debates Trump’s proposed bill, the Republican Party, which controls both the House and Senate, faces internal division. Some GOP lawmakers have joined Democrats in opposing the legislation.
The bill boosts funding for border security, defense, and energy production but includes contentious cuts to healthcare and food assistance programs to offset costs.
Elon Musk, former head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with slashing government spending, left the White House amid a bitter dispute with President Donald Trump over the latter’s expansive budget proposal, dubbed the "big, beautiful bill."
Trump suggested Musk’s opposition stems from provisions in the bill that would eliminate electric vehicle (EV) incentives, impacting Musk’s companies like Tesla and SpaceX. Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Trump remarked, “He’s upset about losing his EV mandate and could lose much more. DOGE might have to turn on Elon—he gets massive subsidies.”
Musk, however, insists his stance is driven by a commitment to reducing government expenditure. Trump’s bill, if passed, could increase the national debt by an estimated $3.3 trillion (£2.4tn). During congressional voting, Musk took to X, posting a graph of rising U.S. debt with the caption, “When will they flatten this curve?” He also criticized lawmakers, stating, “Any Congress member who campaigned on cutting spending but voted for this record debt increase should be ashamed!” Musk vowed to challenge such lawmakers in next year’s primaries and even floated the idea of forming a new political party to rival both Republicans and Democrats.
Addressing Trump’s EV incentive claims, Musk shared an interview clip on X, asserting that removing these incentives would actually strengthen Tesla’s competitive edge.
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