
Trump threatens Musk’s U.S. status
Here’s the latest on the escalating feud between Elon Musk and Donald Trump over the “Big Beautiful Bill”:
🔥 What’s happening now
Trump threatens Musk’s U.S. status
President Trump said on July 1 that he’d “have to take a look” at deporting Elon Musk—joking about ordering the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to investigate Musk’s government subsidies—and warned that without them Musk “would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa” .
Rooted in the Big Beautiful Bill clash
The feud re‑sparked after Musk criticized Trump’s massive domestic policy package—informally dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill”—calling it “an outrageous, pork‑filled” spending spree that undermines electric vehicle incentives and balloons the deficit . Trump fired back, reminding Musk of his opposition to ending the EV mandate and threatening to yank subsidies from Tesla and SpaceX .
Escalation and political retaliation
Musk has begun mobilizing politically—pledging to support primary challengers against Republicans who back the bill and even hinting at forming an “America Party” . In response, Trump isn’t just threatening deportation—he’s also floated cutting federal support to Musk’s businesses and using DOGE as a tool of political retribution .
🤼 Why it matters
Policy tug‑of‑war
At its core, this feud pits Trump’s priorities—border enforcement, big tax cuts, reduced regulation—against Musk’s focus on debt reduction, future industries, and clean energy incentives.
High stakes for Musk’s companies
Tesla and SpaceX rely on government subsidies and contracts. Trump’s threats to withdraw federal funding and end EV credits could significantly impact both their bottom lines .
Political fallout for the GOP
Musk’s campaign support for primary challengers may fracture GOP unity. Trump’s attacks also signal how deeply personal and potentially punitive their split has become.
🕵️ What to look out for next
- Will Trump follow through?
Threats about deportation and cutting subsidies are strong, but could remain rhetorical unless formal actions are taken. - Will Musk escalate?
He’s hinted at further responses but has “refrained for now” —for now. - Impact on legislation and markets
Watch for developments in the Senate vote on the bill and Tesla stock reactions—shares recently dropped ~5 % after the feud reignited . - DOGE’s role
If the Department of Government Efficiency opens an inquiry into Musk, it could mark a serious escalation.
🔚 Bottom line
A once‑cordial association between Trump and Musk has turned adversarial—rooted in deep disagreements over fiscal policy, energy priorities, and who truly influences the Republican base. With threats of deportation, subsidy cuts, and political retaliation now on the table, this feud carries major implications for Musk’s businesses, Trump’s legislative agenda, and the political dynamics of a divided GOP.