Elon Musk has publicly denounced President Donald Trump’s flagship tax and spending legislation, calling it a “disgusting abomination” and urging Americans to pressure Congress to “kill the bill.” The legislation, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” by Trump, includes major tax breaks, increased defense spending, and an expanded debt ceiling—measures Musk says would add $2.5 trillion to the U.S. deficit and plunge the country into unsustainable debt.
Musk’s break from Trump comes just days after leaving the administration’s cost-cutting team, Doge, where he worked for 129 days. His remarks signal a growing rift within the Republican Party, as fiscal conservatives like Senator Rand Paul also voice opposition. While Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson defend the bill as a driver of economic growth, Musk warned that he may back primary challengers against Republicans who support it.
The White House dismissed Musk’s deficit concerns as a “hoax,” asserting the bill would improve America’s financial future. Johnson acknowledged speaking with Musk, noting the bill’s phase-out of electric vehicle tax credits could impact Tesla. Reports also suggest Musk was frustrated by the FAA’s rejection of his bid to have Starlink manage air traffic control, citing potential conflicts of interest.
Some Democrats welcomed Musk’s criticism, seeing it as confirmation of their concerns about the bill’s fiscal irresponsibility. Despite his past support for Trump—including over $250 million in campaign donations—Musk now threatens to campaign against those backing the legislation. With a self-imposed July 4 deadline, Trump is pushing for swift passage, along with a $9.4 billion cost-cutting addendum targeting foreign aid and public broadcasting.
