Daijiworld Media Network- Washington
Washington, Jul 2: Tensions between two of the most influential figures in American politics and industry escalated dramatically after US President Donald Trump took a swipe at Elon Musk, hinting at his deportation to South Africa over criticism of the recently passed 'One Big Beautiful Bill'.
Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, responded on X (formerly Twitter) with a cryptic but sharp remark: “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now,” hinting at deeper tensions simmering beneath the surface.
The verbal showdown comes just months after Musk and Trump appeared to be strong allies. Musk had been one of Trump's top political donors in the 2024 election and was even appointed to head the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). However, after stepping down from the role in May, Musk’s stance has notably shifted, with reports suggesting he may be considering launching a political front to counter Trump’s Republican allies who supported the president’s controversial spending legislation.
During a media interaction at the launch of a new detention facility in Florida, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” Trump, 79, was asked whether he’d consider deporting Musk. His reply stirred immediate backlash: “We’ll have to take a look,” he said ominously, while also targeting Musk’s federal contracts and subsidies.
“We might have to put DOGE on Elon,” Trump added in jest, before warning, “I don’t think he should be playing that game with me.”
Sources close to the former president claim that Trump believes Musk’s criticism of the bill stems from the removal of certain EV-friendly clauses, which would directly impact Tesla’s business. “Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa,” Trump posted on his social platform, Truth Social.
As the battle between two of America’s most high-profile figures intensifies, political observers suggest the rift could significantly impact the 2026 midterms and alter the landscape of conservative tech alliances. For now, Musk seems to be holding back—but for how long remains the billion-dollar question.