Political Feud Escalates Between Former Allies
Former President Donald Trump has launched a fresh attack against tech billionaire Elon Musk, demanding the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) investigate subsidies received by Musk's companies to save "BIG" government money. This comes in direct response to Musk's criticism of Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" - a sweeping legislative package featuring tax cuts, increased defense spending, and immigration restrictions.
Policy Clash Over Subsidies
The conflict centers on Trump's proposed budget that would reduce access to federal food and healthcare programs while phasing out sustainable energy subsidies. Musk, whose companies SpaceX and Tesla benefited significantly from government contracts and green energy incentives, previously called Trump's plans "completely insane and destructive." The billionaire warned the legislation would "destroy millions of American jobs and cause enormous strategic damage to our country."
DOGE's Controversial Role
DOGE (Department Of Government Efficiency) is a semi-official agency created to identify cost savings across federal institutions. Musk once chaired the department during his alliance with Trump, but the relationship has dramatically soured. Musk now claims lawmakers supporting Trump's bill after campaigning on fiscal restraint should "hang their heads in shame."
Trump's Scathing Rebuke
On Truth Social, Trump countered: "Elon gets maybe more subsidy than any human in history, by far. Without subsidies, he'd probably close shop and return to South Africa. No more rockets, satellites, or electric cars - our country would save a FORTUNE. Maybe DOGE should investigate? BIG MONEY TO BE SAVED!!!"
Election Implications
The feud holds significant political consequences. Musk sponsored Trump's reelection campaign with approximately $300 million, gaining substantial White House influence he's since lost. Republicans worry Musk's public opposition could jeopardize their congressional majority in the 2026 midterms. Musk has even called for a new political party, labeling current lawmakers the "PORKY PIG PARTY" and declaring: "They'll lose their primary next year if it's the last thing I do on this earth."