Key Points:
- Musk called the multitrillion-dollar bill a “disgusting abomination” on X, sparking a clash with Trump.
- Trump warned Musk of “serious consequences” if he funds Democrats. Johnson called such a move a “big mistake.”
- Musk, a significant 2024 campaign donor, spent $200 million to support Trump.
On June 8, 2025, House Speaker Mike Johnson urged President Donald Trump and Elon Musk to resolve their public dispute. “There’s a lot of emotion involved,” Johnson said on ABC News’ “This Week”. “It’s in the country’s interest for everyone to work together.” The feud began over a Republican-led spending bill that narrowly passed the House.
Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, hasn’t spoken to Musk about the bill since June 2, 2025. He hopes the two can mend ties for the sake of the Republican Party and the nation.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, blasted the GOP’s multitrillion-dollar bill on X. He called it a “disgusting abomination” that would balloon federal deficits. Posts on X from users like @elonmusk labeled the bill “pork-filled” and described it as disgraceful.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the bill could add $2.4 trillion to the debt over the next 10 years.
Musk’s criticism, which targeted Trump’s agenda, led to a public clash. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Fox News that Trump and Musk haven’t spoken since the feud began. She added that Trump has no plans to reach out.
Trump’s Warning to Musk
President Trump reacted sharply to Musk’s attacks. On June 7, 2025, he told NBC News reporter Kristen Welker he was “not interested” in repairing ties with Musk. Trump warned Musk would face “dire consequences” if he funds Democratic candidates against Republicans who backed the bill.
Musk, the largest donor in the 2024 election, spent $200 million through his super PAC to help Trump win, per OpenSecrets. On X, Musk threatened to “fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.” Johnson echoed Trump, calling it a “big mistake” if Musk supports Democrats, per Fox News.
The “big, beautiful bill” includes tax cuts, border security funding, and Trump’s deportation plans, per CNN. It passed the House on May 22, 2025, and is now with the Senate.
Musk’s opposition stems from its cost and removal of electric vehicle tax credits, which hurts Tesla.
Johnson defended the bill, saying it helps “hardworking Americans,” not just the “richest man in the world.” He told CNBC that he had texted Musk to explain the bill’s benefits but received no reply. On X, @SpeakerJohnson shared a list of “50 major wins” in the bill, citing Charlie Kirk.
The feud worries Republicans. It could derail Trump’s agenda and split the party. “It’s getting out of control,” Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) told Politico.
Some GOP members, such as Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), hope the Senate includes spending cuts, according to The Washington Post. Others, like Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), respect Musk’s DOGE work but support the bill, according to NBC News.
On X, @BillAckman urged Trump and Musk to reconcile for the country’s good. The rift may affect GOP unity as the Senate debates the bill by July 4, 2025.
Future Perdiciton on Musks and Trump
The Trump-Musk feud shows no signs of cooling. Trump suggested reviewing Musk’s government contracts, per Reuters. Musk’s exit from DOGE last month and his criticism of the bill have strained ties.
Republicans fear Musk’s $250 million in 2024 election spending could turn against them in the 2026 midterms. On X, @mkraju noted Musk’s deficit concerns. Johnson remains optimistic, telling CNBC he believes in “redemption.” The Senate’s changes to the bill could ease tensions, but the feud may reshape GOP dynamics.