Tensions between former allies Donald Trump and Elon Musk have taken a dramatic turn. Following the tech billionaire’s fierce criticism of Trump’s proposed “Big Beautiful Bill,” the former US president suggested he might consider deporting Musk — a naturalised citizen originally from South Africa. The unexpected threat underscores growing divisions over electric vehicle (EV) subsidies, national debt, and political loyalty.
The Trigger: Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ vs. Musk’s EV Advocacy
Elon Musk has publicly slammed Trump’s flagship legislative proposal, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” for eliminating federal support for electric vehicles. Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has not only criticised the bill’s economic impact but also warned that it would undermine the U.S. EV industry, inflate national debt, and restrict innovation.
“He’s losing his EV mandate,” Trump said in a sharp response, adding, “Elon can lose a lot more than that.”
Musk has gone so far as to threaten political retaliation, vowing to back electoral challenges against any lawmakers who support the bill. In a growing show of resistance, he has even floated the idea of founding a new political faction — the “America Party” — if the bill passes.
Trump’s Retort: Deportation and DOGE Threats
When asked by reporters whether Musk’s citizenship status could be reconsidered due to his vocal opposition, Trump replied cryptically:
“I don’t know. We’ll have to take a look.”
He then made a bizarre reference to turning the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a satirical agency Musk once led, against the billionaire:
“We might have to put DOGE on Elon… DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon.”
The comments appeared to be half-joking but were immediately picked up by media outlets and political commentators as a sign of escalating tensions.
Musk Responds: “So Tempting to Escalate”
Musk, who is known for his quick retorts on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledged Trump’s comments with restraint. Sharing a clip of the President’s remarks, he replied:
“So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”
Despite his measured tone, the post suggested Musk is weighing his next move carefully amid political pressure and media attention.
From Political Allies to Adversaries
Ironically, Musk was one of Trump’s largest donors in the 2024 election cycle and even served as a close adviser during the early days of the administration. He also led DOGE as a special government employee, tasked with cutting wasteful federal spending.
But as policy divides deepen, the rift between Trump and Musk appears to be widening into a full-scale public fallout.
What began as a policy disagreement over EV subsidies has morphed into a political power struggle between two of the most high-profile figures in American public life. Whether Trump’s deportation threat is serious or symbolic, it marks a significant fracture in a once-powerful alliance — and may shape the course of future debates around clean energy, national policy, and the political ambitions of Elon Musk.
