Elon Musk Breaks Ranks: A Surprising Critique of Trump’s Spending Bill

Elon Musk, the tech powerhouse and long-time supporter of Donald Trump, has expressed his disappointment with the recently passed tax and spending bill, a key component of Trump’s policy agenda. In an interview with CBS, Musk articulated his concerns that the legislation, which promises extensive tax breaks and increased defense spending, contradicts efforts to reduce government spending, which he had previously supported during his tenure as Trump’s self-appointed ‘cost-cutting tsar’.

Musk believes that the bill, referred to by Trump as his “big, beautiful bill,” ultimately increases the budget deficit rather than diminishing it. Projections indicate that it could add $600 billion to the deficit in the upcoming fiscal year. He noted, “I was disappointed to see the massive spending bill, frankly,” asserting that it undermines the efforts of the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), which had aimed to streamline government expenses by cutting several programs, including foreign aid.

The House’s approval of the bill was closely contested, revealing divisions within Trump’s Republican Party regarding the appropriate fiscal direction. While Trump has voiced both frustrations and satisfaction regarding the bill—celebrating its tax cuts and future defense funding—he has not publicly addressed Musk’s criticisms. The legislation also plans to raise the debt ceiling to $4 trillion, allowing for greater government borrowing.

This critique signifies a growing rift between Musk and Trump, especially as Musk has begun to step back from his aggressive political spending strategies and presence in government advisory roles. He previously aimed for a $1 trillion reduction in government outlays but faced backlash amid protests and boycotts against Tesla linked to his policy actions, including substantial workforce reductions. In closing, Musk reaffirmed his role at Tesla and highlighted a commitment to future growth while also stating, “I did what needed to be done,” to justify his controversial cost-cutting measures.