Musk Challenges Trump Deficit Bill, Risks Splitting GOP 2026 Midterms

Elon Musk has publicly opposed President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a major tax cut and spending package central to Trump's second-term agenda, describing it as a "disgusting abomination" due to its significant deficit impact. Musk's criticism, including calls to "kill the bill" and warnings of electoral consequences for politicians supporting it, threatens to complicate the legislation's passage and put Republican lawmakers in a difficult position as they balance backing Trump and avoiding Musk's ire. Despite House Republicans largely proceeding with the bill, some, like Rep. Thomas Massie, welcome Musk's potential support for primary challengers against bill proponents. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $2.4 trillion to the national debt by 2034, a key factor in Musk's opposition, as he prioritizes reducing the national debt and government spending. Musk's sustained social media campaign has resonated with a segment of Trump’s MAGA base, potentially influencing Republican voters crucial to Trump's 2026 midterm prospects. While Trump has yet to directly respond to Musk’s critique, the tension marks a notable rift between the president and the wealthiest man in the world, who previously served briefly as Trump's cost-cutter-in-chief.