President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of deporting Elon Musk back to his native South Africa as tensions between the two escalated over Musk’s recent criticisms of Trump’s tax and budget bill. Trump made the comment to reporters on July 1, following Musk’s public opposition to the bill and threats to support primary challenges against Republican lawmakers who back it. Trump also hinted at potential reviews of government contracts held by Musk’s companies.
In response, Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, criticized Trump’s policies and expressed his desire to see all subsidies cut. The clash between the two influential figures comes after a period of attempted reconciliation, with Musk having previously endorsed Trump but now strongly opposing his environmental and economic decisions.
The situation intensified as Trump targeted Musk’s reliance on subsidies and questioned his contributions to the country, while Musk argued against the potential impacts of the bill on national debt and the environment. The public exchange of criticisms highlights the complex relationship between the billionaire entrepreneur and the former president.
Elon Musk made a controversial departure from the Trump administration in June. During the initial months of Trump’s second term, Musk led an initiative called DOGE, focused on reducing government size by pinpointing inefficiencies. Musk resigned from his White House role in late May to concentrate on his business endeavors. In a post on June 30, Musk reiterated his call for a new political party, criticizing the excessive spending bill and dubbing the current political landscape as a “one-party country.” He suggested the need for a party that prioritizes the interests of the people. Previously, there was a public falling out between Musk and President Trump on June 5, when Trump threatened to end subsidies to Musk’s companies. Musk’s enterprises have secured significant government contracts, loans, and tax credits, totaling around $38 billion over the years, according to a Washington Post report. The relationship between Trump and Musk soured, leading to discussions around potential deportation of Musk.
