Elon Musk has publicly denounced a sweeping Republican-led spending bill that supports Donald Trump’s legislative agenda, labeling it a “disgusting abomination” in a viral post on X (formerly Twitter).

“I’m sorry, but I just can’t stand it anymore,” Musk wrote. “This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination. Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.”

Musk Slams GOP Over Budget Deficit and National Debt

Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, warned that the bill would skyrocket the U.S. budget deficit to an unsustainable $2.5 trillion, placing a “crushing burden” on American taxpayers. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) echoed this concern, estimating that the legislation would add $2.3 trillion to the deficit due to large tax cuts and increased spending on immigration and defense.

The billionaire entrepreneur, who recently departed from a government advisory role under Trump, accused lawmakers of betraying the American people. Later, he doubled down with another post:

“In November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.”

Behind Musk’s Outrage: EV Credits, FAA Tech, and NASA Role

Sources familiar with Musk’s relationship with the Trump administration point to several frustrations behind his public outburst. According to reports:

• The bill omits electric vehicle (EV) tax credits, a key incentive for Tesla customers.
• Musk had been lobbying for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to adopt his Starlink satellite system—a proposal the bill reportedly overlooks.
• A NASA administrator nomination for Musk ally Jared Isaacman was quietly withdrawn.
• Musk’s special advisory role in government, limited to 130 days, was not extended by the White House.

Musk had previously signaled his discontent, telling CBS News that the legislation “undermines” the goals of his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative.

GOP Leaders Push Back: “We’re Moving Forward”

Musk’s criticism landed like a bombshell on Capitol Hill, where Republicans are still debating final changes to the House-passed bill. Senate Majority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) responded:

“We obviously respect everything that Elon did with DOGE. On this particular issue, we have a difference of opinion.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) was even more forceful:

“This is the key to the economic resurgence of America. It’s going to be jet fuel for the economy. And by the way, the debt ceiling is also revved into this legislation. That is a dangerous thing for Elon or anyone who cares about the U.S. economy to be meddling with.”

Divided Reactions Among Republicans and Democrats

Some fiscal conservatives welcomed Musk’s stance. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), long-time deficit hawks, used the remarks to rally opposition.

Others, like Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), acknowledged Musk’s concerns but defended the bill’s growth potential:

“I like Elon Musk, but he’s one man.”

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) added, “The Senate should make the bill substantially better.”

On the left, Democrats surprisingly found common ground with Musk.

“I agree with Elon Musk,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), while Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) scoffed at the sincerity behind the billionaire’s concerns:
“A broken clock is right twice a day. I don’t think there’s an ounce of sincerity in Elon Musk’s interest in trying to reduce red ink.”

What’s in the Republican Spending Bill?

The controversial legislation:

• Extends Trump’s 2017 tax cuts
• Eliminates taxes on tips and overtime
• Increases funding for military and immigration enforcement
• Cuts Medicaid and SNAP benefits
• Raises the debt ceiling by $4 trillion

Passed narrowly in the House, the bill now faces Senate scrutiny. Any changes must return to the House for final approval before President Trump can sign it into law.

Fallout from Musk’s Departure and Tesla’s Struggles

Musk’s time in Washington, which ended with a formal Oval Office sendoff, has been the subject of intense media scrutiny. Critics say he fell short of achieving the $2 trillion in cuts promised during his tenure leading DOGE.

Tensions between Musk and the Trump team continue to simmer. His past criticisms of Trump-era tariffs and recent clashes over defense and aviation policy hint at deeper rifts.

Meanwhile, Musk’s public image—and that of Tesla—has taken a hit. The EV maker’s stock is down 13% this year, with declining sales contributing to market uncertainty.