Former U.S. President Donald Trump escalated his feud with billionaire Elon Musk on Tuesday, suggesting that Musk’s companies have benefited excessively from federal subsidies and calling for a review by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to cut what he claims is “BIG money.”
Trump’s post on Truth Social comes in response to Musk’s renewed criticism of a sweeping tax-and-spending bill backed by Trump. The Tesla and SpaceX CEO has denounced the bill as “insane and destructive,” accusing lawmakers of betraying promises to limit government spending. He also vowed to unseat those who supported the legislation, stating, “They will lose their primary next year if it is the last thing I do on this Earth.”
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Trump fired back, writing, “Elon may get more subsidy than any human being in history… Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa.” He added, “Perhaps we should have DOGE take a good, hard look at this? BIG MONEY TO BE SAVED!!!”
Musk responded tersely on his platform X: “I am literally saying CUT IT ALL. Now.” He has called for the creation of a new political party to challenge what he dubbed “the PORKY PIG PARTY,” criticizing both major U.S. parties for runaway spending.
This public rift marks a sharp turn in a once-close relationship. Musk previously supported Trump’s re-election campaign with nearly $300 million and even led the administration’s cost-cutting DOGE initiative. But the fallout from the spending bill has driven a wedge between the two influential figures.
The feud has rattled markets, with Tesla shares experiencing sharp volatility—wiping out nearly $150 billion in market value before partially rebounding. It also raises concerns for Republicans, who fear the high-profile clash could affect their momentum heading into the 2026 midterm elections.
