The public fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has escalated into a full-blown political feud, reflecting deeper tensions over U.S. economic policy, personal ego, and the future of America's political landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the dramatic clash in five key points:
1. Trump Tells Musk to "Go Back to South Africa"
On June 30, Trump used his Truth Social platform to accuse Musk of relying heavily on government subsidies.
“Musk may get more subsidy than any human being in history,” Trump wrote, before adding, “Without them, he’d have to go back home to South Africa.”He also took a swipe at Musk’s former role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), saying it should now investigate him.
2. Musk Fires Back, Calling the Bill “Debt Slavery”
Musk, once a Trump donor and informal advisor, lashed out in response.
“I am literally saying CUT IT ALL. Now.”He labeled Trump’s proposed tax-and-spending legislation:
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“Insane”
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“Destructive”
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“A disgusting abomination”
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“A debt slavery bill”Musk claims the bill worsens the national deficit and punishes regular Americans.
3. The Flashpoint: Trump’s Economic Package
At the center of the feud is Trump’s controversial "One Big, Beautiful Bill", a sweeping economic proposal that includes:
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Boosting defense spending
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Funding the U.S.–Mexico border wall
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Financing mass deportations
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Rolling back green energy incentives and EV subsidies
These rollbacks directly threaten Tesla, whose business is heavily reliant on EV tax credits and clean-energy support — hence Musk’s furious opposition.
4. Musk’s Resignation from DOGE Marks the Split
Musk resigned from his post at the Department of Government Efficiency in late May, just before launching his tirade. His departure signaled a rift with Trump’s fiscal direction, and marked a turning point in their relationship.
5. Musk Teases a New Political Movement
In a direct challenge to both major parties, Musk floated the idea of forming a new anti-establishment party, tapping into his massive online following.
“Time for a new political party,” he wrote — a signal that his ambitions now extend beyond business and into full-scale political disruption.
The Road Ahead
With the Senate aiming to pass Trump’s bill by July 4, tensions are likely to intensify. The White House has stood firm, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt saying:
“This is one big, beautiful bill, and [Trump] is sticking to it.”
Meanwhile, Musk’s rebellion could galvanize tech-aligned libertarians, climate advocates, and political independents, posing unpredictable risks for Trump’s 2024 campaign — especially given Musk’s past $250 million in donations.
This very public feud could signal the fracturing of the billionaire-political alliance that once helped shape modern conservatism.
