WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump took aim at tech billionaire Elon Musk in a post on June 30, 2025, threatening possible deportation over Musk’s public criticism of Trump’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” which excludes tax credits for electric vehicles.
In a fiery statement, Trump accused Musk of disloyalty and questioned his U.S. citizenship status, suggesting Musk could be sent “back to South Africa” in response to his opposition. The former president did not elaborate on how such a deportation would be legal or feasible.
The Tesla and SpaceX CEO responded on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Hitting the debt ceiling is the only thing that will actually force the government to cut waste and fraud. That’s why the debt ceiling legislation exists!”
Musk’s remarks came after Trump expressed concern that Musk knew that he was against EV mandates. The bill lacks incentives for the EV industry, a key pillar of Musk’s business empire. Musk suggests the bill will increase the debt ceiling.
Once known for exchanging praise and admiration, the Trump-Musk relationship has grown hostile. The latest clash suggests the “bromance” between the two billionaire figures may again be on the rocks.
If enacted, the Senate’s version would increase the debt ceiling by $5 trillion, with a projected increase in the national debt of $3.3–$5 trillion over the next decade.
Representatives for both Trump and Musk did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication.
