Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, sharply criticized a new United States spending bill under consideration in Congress, calling it an “outrageous, pork-filled” package that would burden taxpayers with unsustainable debt. Musk posted his remarks on X (formerly Twitter) just days after resigning from his advisory role in the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency—a position endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
Musk said the legislation—projected to add about $3 trillion to the federal deficit over the next decade despite cuts to healthcare and food assistance—would undermine efforts to control government spending. He urged voters to hold lawmakers accountable for supporting measures that increase long-term debt.
Earlier, Musk had offered only mild criticism, noting that the bill conflicted with his cost-cutting goals. His latest comments, however, expose growing tension between Musk and Trump, even though Musk donated nearly $300 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign and had publicly backed several Trump initiatives.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded that Trump was already aware of Musk’s stance and that it would not change their relationship. Trump values Musk’s influence among younger, tech-oriented voters.
Musk’s outspoken position has amplified debate over U.S. fiscal policy. Proponents of the bill argue that its tax cuts for individuals and businesses, along with $350 billion for border enforcement, will boost economic growth and national security. Critics counter that ballooning deficits risk financial stability and threaten social-safety-net programs.
As Congress approaches a decisive vote, Musk’s critique highlights a divide between private-sector leaders and political figures over balancing government investment with fiscal responsibility.
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