Trump Questions Government Contracts for Musk’s Companies
Former President Donald Trump has criticized Elon Musk, suggesting that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, which Musk helped establish, could be used to scrutinize Musk’s extensive government contracts. “No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a FORTUNE. Perhaps we should have DOGE take a good, hard, look at this?” Trump stated, amplifying tensions between the two, reports 24brussels.
According to estimates, Musk and his businesses have secured over $38 billion in government contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits throughout the years. The dynamic between Trump and Musk has shifted dramatically since the start of the year when the two were seen enjoying mutual admiration and public appearances together. However, their relationship deteriorated last month, primarily due to differing views on government debt.
Now exchanging barbs on social media, Musk responded to Trump’s comments on his platform, X, saying, “I am literally saying CUT IT ALL. Now.” This latest round of exchanges follows Musk’s renewed backlash against Trump’s proposed economic legislation, commonly referred to as the “big, beautiful bill,” which is facing challenges in securing sufficient Republican backing to pass in the Senate.
Musk has openly criticized the bill for its potential to inflate the U.S. national debt. He indicated that he might unseat lawmakers who had campaigned on reducing the deficit but then chose to vote in favor of the bill. Moreover, Musk hinted at the possibility of starting a new political party if the legislation is enacted.
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has projected that the bill could lead to an increase in federal deficits of approximately $2.4 trillion over the forthcoming decade. The tensions between Musk and Trump reflect broader concerns regarding fiscal responsibility and the future direction of U.S. economic policy.
