() Billionaire Elon Musk attacked President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for reasons including the elimination of the electric vehicle tax cut and circumstances around his departure from Washington, D.C., a source familiar with the matter confirmed to .
Musk had developed a close relationship with the president, contributing substantially to his election campaign and serving as a close adviser to Trump, often appearing alongside the president at critical meetings and in the Oval Office.
Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency was also given broad authority to make cuts to federal agencies and programs, with the stated goal of weeding out fraud and abuse.
Recently, Musk took to X to blast the signature legislation, which he called a “disgusting abomination.”
The root of Musk’s displeasure appears to be rooted in the lack of special treatment he received in the plan, with four major issues prompting his ire.
Musk had advocated for the administration to retain an electric vehicle tax credit intended to encourage the adoption of more environmentally friendly vehicles. Tesla, owned by Musk, has suffered financially since Musk became heavily involved in politics, with Musk facing pressure to turn things around for the company.
While Musk received a friendly send-off from Trump at the end of his 130-day limit as a “special government employee,” a designation that allowed the administration to side-step Senate confirmation required for high-level roles, Musk wanted to continue. However, he was informed by White House officials that he was unable to stay.
Musk also wanted to use his Starlink satellite as part of efforts to update air traffic control systems amid a flurry of aviation accidents and troubles with air traffic control staffing and technology. The administration declined because it would appear to be a conflict of interest.
Trump also withdrew the nomination of Jared Isaacman for NASA administrator Saturday. Isaacman, a Musk ally, would have led an agency that has substantial contracts with Musk’s businesses.
Musk and Trump reportedly maintain a friendly relationship, though the president is said to be irritated by Musk’s public criticism.
Musk’s spokesperson didn’t comment when asked by about his criticism of the bill.
