- विज्ञापन -
Washington [US]: Elon Musk is intensifying pressure on Republican lawmakers who backed former President Donald Trump’s massive new spending legislation, signaling a deepening rift within the GOP ahead of the midterm elections, according to The Hill.
Earlier this week, Musk declared that any Republican who supported what he referred to as Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” would lose their primary races — vowing, “if it’s the last thing I do on this Earth.”
Many Republicans have criticized Musk’s comments as counterproductive, particularly during a time when the party is already grappling with political headwinds. A veteran Republican strategist told The Hill that internal divisions and resource-draining primary battles have historically weakened the GOP in crucial Senate contests.
Since leaving the White House, Musk has openly criticized Trump’s flagship legislative package, especially its potential impact on the national deficit. The bill narrowly passed the House on Thursday and was signed by Trump during a Fourth of July event.
Musk’s anger peaked on Monday when he announced plans to fund primary challengers against pro-bill Republicans. He pledged to support Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), one of the bill’s few Republican opponents, and called for forming a new political party in response to what he labeled “reckless spending.”
Some GOP lawmakers have brushed off Musk’s threat. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) told Just the News, “I’ll take President Trump’s endorsement over Elon’s any day of the week,” noting that many Republican colleagues are dismissing Musk’s remarks entirely.
In response, Trump hinted at potential retaliation. During a speech in Florida, he mentioned the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a Musk-linked advisory group, and suggested it could be turned against him. Trump also floated the idea of deporting Musk — a naturalized U.S. citizen born in South Africa.
This marks a sharp reversal in Musk’s relationship with Trump. Earlier this year, Musk’s America PAC spent tens of millions in support of Trump’s 2024 campaign and helped boost Republican candidates in critical races, including Wisconsin’s state Supreme Court contest.
Despite the feud, Musk recently acknowledged Trump’s diplomatic accomplishments, posting on X: “Credit where credit is due. @realDonaldTrump has successfully resolved several serious conflicts around the world.”
However, political analysts warn Musk’s current stance could backfire. GOP strategist Jason Cabel Roe noted, “Musk is already deeply unpopular among Democrats. If he alienates Republicans too, he risks becoming politically irrelevant.”
The clash highlights growing tensions within conservative circles and raises questions about Musk’s future influence in both politics and business.
