Musk Claims Trump Would Have Lost 2024 Election Without Him

A public feud has erupted between President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, centered on the controversial "Big Beautiful Bill," a sweeping tax and spending legislation. Musk, a major financial backer of Trump's 2024 campaign, claimed on social media that without his support, Trump would have lost the election and Republicans would have a slimmer Senate majority or be in the minority in the House. Trump dismissed Musk's claim and expressed disappointment over Musk's sudden opposition to the bill, particularly after electric vehicle incentives were removed. Musk countered by accusing the bill of being rushed through Congress with little transparency and criticized its excessive spending and pork-barrel provisions, dubbing it a "disgusting abomination." The rift marks a sharp turn from their previously close relationship, which included Musk serving as a presidential adviser and attending Oval Office meetings with Trump. Musk has also highlighted past statements from Trump that criticize federal deficits, pointing to perceived inconsistency in the president's current stance.