Trump, Musk Clash Publicly Over $4T Tax Spending Bill

U.S. President Donald Trump and Elon Musk have entered a public feud over the administration's $4 trillion tax and spending bill, with Musk labeling it a "disgusting abomination" due to concerns about increased budget deficits and excessive spending. Trump criticized Musk's opposition, attributing it to the bill's removal of electric vehicle mandates that previously subsidized Tesla, while Musk countered by condemning the bill's "mountain of disgusting pork" and emphasizing the need for a slim and beautiful budget. This conflict marks a significant deterioration in their previously close relationship, which included Musk's role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) before his recent departure. Congressional Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have also clashed with Musk, defending the bill and expressing disappointment over his public criticism. The dispute extends beyond budget issues, as Musk also challenged Senator Lindsey Graham over allegations of excessive taxpayer spending during a trip to Ukraine, which Graham denied. Throughout, Trump has continued to promote the bill as "big and beautiful," urging swift congressional approval despite the growing backlash from Musk and some Republicans.