amynicole – The long-standing feud between former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk flared up again this week. Trump threatened to pull federal funding from Musk’s SpaceX after Musk criticized Trump’s proposed “Big Beautiful Bill” spending plan. Musk called the bill “insane spending,” prompting Trump to retaliate publicly.
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Trump claimed Musk receives more subsidies than anyone in history and suggested that without government support, Musk’s companies would fail. On Truth Social, Trump wrote that without subsidies, SpaceX would close and the U.S. would save “a FORTUNE.” The president also jokingly threatened to deploy the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) against Musk’s businesses, referencing a government agency he said would target Musk.
During a visit to a Florida detention center, Trump was asked about deporting Musk, who became a U.S. citizen in 2002. Trump replied that it was something they would “have to take a look” at. He continued to criticize Musk’s subsidies and hinted at potential government actions against him.
Trump blamed Musk’s anger on his decision to revoke a 2021 executive order from the Biden administration. The order set stricter targets for electric vehicle emissions, which Trump mistakenly called an “EV mandate.” Trump also expressed his opposition to electric cars, preferring a mix of gasoline, electric, and hybrid vehicles.
Despite the harsh words, Musk has so far refrained from escalating the conflict on social media. He acknowledged the temptation but chose to hold back. However, the tension threatens to grow deeper, especially given the billions of federal dollars at stake for SpaceX and Tesla.
Stakes for SpaceX, Tesla, and U.S. Politics
SpaceX relies heavily on federal contracts, receiving funding from NASA and the Department of Defense for rocket launches and satellite services. Reports estimate that SpaceX has earned over $22 billion in government funding since 2003. Any cuts to SpaceX’s support could impact not only the company but also U.S. space exploration goals.
Tesla also benefits from government incentives, including $11.4 billion in regulatory credits from federal and state programs promoting electric vehicles. Trump’s budget proposal could end federal tax credits and impose new fees on electric cars, which threatens Tesla’s profitability.
Musk opposes the budget bill not because of EV subsidies but due to concerns over increasing the national debt. He tweeted that the bill would “bankrupt” the U.S., undermining efforts to reach Mars. Musk also threatened to form a third political party to offer an alternative to the current Democrat-Republican system.
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Moreover, Musk vowed to campaign against any lawmakers who support the spending bill, warning they would lose their primary elections next year. This marks a continuation of Musk’s growing political involvement and influence. The renewed Trump-Musk feud highlights the complex relationship between government policy, corporate interests, and national priorities. How this conflict unfolds could shape future space and electric vehicle initiatives, as well as political alliances in the U.S. In the coming months, both parties will face pressure to balance fiscal responsibility with innovation funding. For now, the public should watch closely as these high-profile figures spar over subsidies and spending.
