Introduction

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has sparked political shockwaves by publicly urging Americans to oppose President Donald Trump’s controversial tax and spending legislation—dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill”. Musk described the bill as a “disgusting abomination” and warned it would add trillions to the U.S. debt. His comments mark a sharp break from the Trump administration, which he served for 129 days as head of the cost-cutting “Doge” task force.

“Kill the Bill”: Musk’s Online Outcry

Taking to his platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk urged followers to tell lawmakers to “kill the bill”. He claimed it would “massively increase the already gigantic budget deficit to $2.5 trillion” and called it “outrageous, pork-filled.”

The bill has passed the House of Representatives and is currently being debated in the Senate. It includes tax breaks, defense spending boosts, and an extension of the 2017 Trump-era tax cuts, while controversially raising the debt ceiling to $4 trillion.

A Rift Between Allies

Musk’s criticism is his first major break with Trump since exiting the White House on 31 May 2025. Trump had previously praised Musk’s work with Doge and publicly supported him during the 2024 election, even receiving $250 million in donations from the Tesla and SpaceX CEO.

In contrast, the White House responded with a “myth buster” memo calling claims of deficit increases a “hoax,” asserting that the bill will usher in an era of “unprecedented economic growth.”

Pushback from Republicans and Democrats

While some Republicans—like Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson—downplayed Musk’s opposition, others in the party voiced concern. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) declared he would oppose the bill due to the debt ceiling increase, stating: “The GOP will own the debt once they vote for this.”

Interestingly, Democrats have seized on Musk’s remarks to criticize Trump’s proposal. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said: “Even Elon Musk, who’s been part of the process, said the bill is bad. Imagine how bad it must be.”

What’s in the “Big Beautiful Bill”?

The legislation includes:

• Extension of 2017 Trump tax cuts
• Massive defense budget expansion
• Funding for mass deportations
• Phasing out of EV tax credits, affecting Tesla
• Raising of the debt ceiling to $4 trillion

According to Axios, Musk was frustrated the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) refused to shift air traffic control to his Starlink satellite system, citing conflict of interest issues.

Musk’s Political Strategy Going Forward

Musk hinted at launching a political campaign to unseat those who backed the bill, saying: “In November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.”

He had previously vowed to fund primary challengers against Republicans who opposed Trump’s goals—but this time, the tables may turn.

Trump Dismisses Musk’s Concerns

Trump responded to critics like Rand Paul with trademark aggression, calling him “crazy” and saying Kentuckians “can’t stand him.” As for Musk, Trump has yet to respond directly but reportedly remains confident in the bill’s passage by the 4 July 2025 deadline.

Speaker Johnson mentioned a 20-minute phone call with Musk, where he lamented that Musk may be upset over lost EV incentives. “He’s terribly wrong,” Johnson said.

Conclusion: A GOP Identity Crisis?

Elon Musk’s rebuke underscores deepening rifts within the Republican party, as populists, fiscal conservatives, and tech-aligned figures clash over Trump’s ambitious budget. Whether or not Musk’s campaign can derail the bill, his voice adds significant pressure—and reflects growing voter concern over America’s national debt.

For more political controversies, read our related story: Witness Testifies That Diddy Dangled Her Over Balcony.