In a dramatic escalation of tensions between two former allies, Elon Musk has denounced US President Donald Trump’s proposed budget bill as “utterly insane,” warning it would plunge the country into “debt slavery” and wipe out millions of jobs.
Musk’s criticism came just hours before the US Senate narrowly voted 51-49 to proceed with debate on the controversial legislation. Vice President J.D. Vance was reportedly on standby in case of a tie.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Tesla and SpaceX CEO wrote, “The latest Senate draft bill will destroy millions of jobs in America and cause immense strategic harm to our country!” He further accused the proposal of protecting “industries of the past,” a possible swipe at the bill’s continued support for fossil fuels, while neglecting sectors like clean energy and advanced tech.
One of Musk’s central objections was the proposed $5 trillion increase to the national debt ceiling, which he argued would accelerate the US toward “fiscal collapse.” He pointed to polling data indicating many Republican voters are alarmed by the bill’s long-term economic implications.
Since departing his role at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has become increasingly vocal in opposing Trump’s economic policies. He described the bill’s potential deficit impact as a “disgusting abomination.”
The feud between Musk and Trump intensified earlier this month after Trump accused Musk of being bitter about lost EV tax incentives. In response, Musk made veiled comments linking Trump to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein—a move that reportedly sparked internal discussions about reevaluating federal contracts with SpaceX. Though Musk later apologized, Trump hinted that forgiveness was possible.
Despite the personal fallout, the core of Musk’s criticism remains rooted in his belief that the bill prioritizes short-term political wins over long-term national stability.
The latest Senate draft bill will destroy millions of jobs in America and cause immense strategic harm to our country!
Utterly insane and destructive. It gives handouts to industries of the past while severely damaging industries of the future. https://t.co/TZ9w1g7zHF
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 28, 2025
