WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump intensified his feud with former aide Elon Musk on Tuesday, criticizing the substantial government subsidies Musk’s businesses receive. The remarks followed Musk’s renewed attacks on Trump’s signature “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which seeks to extend tax cuts and increase border security.
“Elon may be the biggest recipient of government subsidies in history,” Trump claimed on social media, adding, “Without them, he might have to shut down and return to South Africa.”
Musk, who recently resigned from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), reignited criticism of the $4.5 trillion bill, calling for the creation of a new political party and warning of mounting national debt. “All I’m asking is that we don’t bankrupt America,” Musk said. “What’s the point of a debt ceiling if we keep raising it?”
Trump responded by urging DOGE to investigate Musk’s ventures, suggesting cuts to SpaceX launches and electric vehicle production could save taxpayers billions.
The bill has divided Republicans, with critics highlighting its potential to strip healthcare from millions while adding over $3 trillion to the national debt. As voting began, Musk accused lawmakers of hypocrisy, stating that 80% of voters supported the idea of a new party to oppose excessive federal spending.
