Trump Slams Musk “Elon Would Close Have To Close Shop” After Musk Threatened To Launch New Political Party
Donald Trump on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Elon Musk, accusing the Tesla and SpaceX CEO of relying heavily on government subsidies and warning that without them, Musk would have to “close up shop and head back home to South Africa.” His comments mark a sharp escalation in a growing feud after Musk criticized Trump’s multitrillion-dollar spending bill and threatened to launch a new America Party.
Trump branded the bill “ridiculous” and reaffirmed his opposition to EV mandates, insisting that while electric cars are fine, Americans should never be made to own them. “Elon may get more subsidy than any human being in history … Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop,” he said, adding that reevaluating these payouts could save taxpayers “a FORTUNE”.
Trump also mocked Musk’s political threat, while noting the effect of subsidy removal: “No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production.” He cheekily suggested the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) — a federal cost-cutting initiative Musk once led — should scrutinize these subsidies.
This exchange follows Musk’s post on X, in which he derided Trump’s spending bill as an “insane” measure, vowing to establish a new political party and challenge lawmakers who support it. Musk argued the legislation would deepen deficits, undermine future industries, and demonstrate the need to break the “Democrat‑Republican uniparty”.
Sources say the spat has created internal tension within the GOP, raising concerns about Musk’s ability to influence Republican primaries and policy direction ahead of 2026 midterms.
Investors have also taken note. Tesla’s stocks have swung sharply during public disputes, reportedly wiping out nearly $150 billion in market value at one point, though some value has since recovered
