Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, Jul 1: In an unexpected escalation of tensions between two powerful figures, US President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of deporting Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk after the billionaire harshly criticised the administration’s flagship spending proposal, dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill.”
When asked by reporters at the White House on Monday whether he would consider deporting Musk, Trump said, “I don’t know. We’ll have to take a look.” He also made a veiled threat, stating, “We might have to put DOGE on Elon,” referring to the Department of Government Efficiency, a cost-cutting agency that Musk briefly led as a special government employee during Trump’s first term.
“DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon,” Trump added, intensifying speculation about the rift. Musk, a naturalised US citizen originally from South Africa, responded with restraint, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”
The fallout began after Musk condemned Trump’s sweeping spending bill, which includes significant rollbacks on electric vehicle (EV) subsidies—a move that could severely impact Tesla’s business. Musk has not only criticised the bill’s provisions but also warned lawmakers of electoral consequences if they support it. He has also raised alarm over the bill’s implications for the US national debt.
Trump did not hold back in his counterattack, posting on Truth Social: “Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa.” He also suggested that Musk could “lose a lot more” than just federal support.
The clash is particularly striking given Musk's status as one of Trump’s biggest financial backers in the 2024 presidential race. The two shared a close working relationship during Trump’s return to office, with Musk often advising on technological and governmental matters. However, tensions have been rising in recent weeks.
Amid the turmoil, Musk has revived discussions about forming a new political party—tentatively titled the "America Party"—if the controversial bill passes. The situation now sets the stage for a dramatic political standoff between the world’s richest man and the most powerful political office in the US.