Elon Musk Accuses Trump of Ingratitude Over Election Support
Elon Musk has publicly stated that without his backing, former US President Donald Trump would have lost the election. Musk asserted on his social media platform X that Democrats would have taken the House, and Republicans would have held a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate if not for his involvement. He expressed disappointment with Trump’s subsequent public criticism, describing it as "such ingratitude."
Conflict Ignited by Tax and Spending Bill Criticism
The tension escalated following Musk’s harsh condemnation of Trump’s large tax and spending bill, which Musk labeled a "disgusting abomination." Trump responded by suggesting Musk was aware of the bill and only objected after its passage, insinuating that cuts to electric vehicle (EV) subsidies motivated Musk's stance rather than fiscal concerns.
Musk refuted these claims, stating that the bill was not shown to him prior to its rapid, late-night passage, which he criticized for lacking congressional scrutiny.
Key Criticisms by Musk:
- The bill was never reviewed by Musk before passing.
- It increases the deficit to $2.5 trillion.
- It includes cuts to EV and solar incentives alongside significant spending increases.
Musk urged preserving EV and solar incentives while eliminating excessive spending to prevent financial instability.
Musk Highlights Trump’s Contradictory Past Statements
- Trump’s 2013 remark expressing embarrassment over Republicans extending the debt ceiling.
- Trump’s 2012 statement opposing deficits and calling for balanced budgets as a prerequisite for congressional re-election.
Musk endorsed these past sentiments with supportive commentary, emphasizing the inconsistency with Trump's current positions.
Deterioration of Musk-Trump Relationship
Previously enjoying a cooperative relationship, Musk’s ties with Trump have frayed amid policy disputes, especially over fiscal measures. Musk's formal role as the Department of Government Efficiency's special government employee concluded recently, after attempting to implement reforms to reduce federal spending.
Musk openly criticized the recent Congressional spending bill as "massive, outrageous, pork-filled," expressing frustration over its passage by a slim House margin and ongoing Senate review.
He reiterated his perspective that a bill cannot simultaneously be "big and beautiful," underscoring his disapproval of the legislation's size and fiscal impact.
Summary
Elon Musk’s public disputes with Donald Trump reveal deep divisions regarding fiscal policy and political alliances. Musk claims credit for Trump's electoral successes while condemning recent spending legislation and highlighting contradictions in Trump's political rhetoric. The ongoing debate underscores the complexities at the intersection of business leadership and political influence.
