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Tensions Between Trump and Musk Escalate Over GOP-Led Spending Bill

House Speaker Mike Johnson is calling for reconciliation between two of the most influential figures in American politics and business—former President Donald Trump and Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk—after a highly publicized fallout over a contentious Republican spending bill.

“There’s a lot of emotion involved in it,” Johnson said during an appearance on ABC News’ This Week, “but it’s in the interest of the country for everybody to work together.”

The Louisiana Republican emphasized the importance of collaboration, especially at a time when economic uncertainty and political division are running high.

The Root of the Fallout: A $1.2 Trillion Spending Package

At the center of the dispute is the recently passed $1.2 trillion GOP-backed federal spending bill. The legislation narrowly cleared the House of Representatives and is now under Senate review. It aims to fund several federal departments, including Defense, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services, through September 2025.

Musk, who has become increasingly vocal on political matters, slammed the bill on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “disgusting abomination” and warning that it would exacerbate the already ballooning federal deficit, which currently stands at over $34 trillion. He went further, posting that Americans should “fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.”

Musk and Trump: From Allies to Adversaries

The rift between Musk and Trump is particularly striking given their previous alignment. Musk was one of the largest private donors to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, with his affiliated super PAC reportedly spending more than $200 million to support the former president’s reelection bid.

But relations soured quickly after Musk's scathing criticism of the GOP’s spending priorities. According to sources cited by CNBC, Musk’s statements were a significant factor in triggering the fallout between the two.

Trump responded in kind. During an interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker on Saturday, Trump said he has no interest in repairing the relationship, stating that Musk would face “very serious consequences” if he supported Democratic challengers to Republican lawmakers who backed the bill.

Speaker Johnson’s Balancing Act

While Johnson remained firmly aligned with Trump, calling Musk’s potential Democratic support a “big mistake,” he also attempted to strike a more diplomatic tone.

“I didn’t set out to write legislation that would please the richest man in the world,” Johnson said. “We’re trying to do what’s right for hardworking American families.”

Johnson confirmed that he has not spoken with Musk since last Monday and downplayed the billionaire’s influence over the legislation’s intent. His comments suggest a broader GOP effort to navigate the increasingly volatile intersection of politics, business, and public opinion.

Broader Implications for 2024 and Beyond

The Musk-Trump feud raises important questions about the role of private capital in politics and the influence of mega-donors on public policy. Musk’s threat to fund opposition candidates, if realized, could reshape several key 2024 races. With over $270 million in combined campaign and PAC contributions expected from Silicon Valley figures this election cycle, the tech world’s political sway is more potent than ever.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, appearing on Fox News Sunday, confirmed that Trump and Musk have not spoken since the public clash. She added that she doesn’t believe Trump “intends to” reconcile.

As the Senate prepares to review the spending bill, political analysts are watching closely to see whether Musk follows through on his threats—and whether this high-profile spat signals a deeper divide within the conservative donor base.

Final Thoughts

The clash between Elon Musk and Donald Trump marks a rare and public fracture between two titans of influence. While Speaker Johnson attempts to mediate, the long-term implications could impact Republican fundraising, political alliances, and the direction of conservative policy in the U.S. for years to come.