Elon Musk, the outgoing head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), intensified his criticism of the Trump-backed tax and spending bill Tuesday, calling it a “disgusting abomination.” Despite Musk’s harsh words, the White House remains resolute in its support for the legislation.
The bill, branded by President Trump and GOP leaders as a “big, beautiful bill,” passed the House in late May after a contentious debate. While most Republicans supported the measure, a handful opposed it over concerns about insufficient spending cuts and rising national debt. Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky has also voiced his likely opposition, particularly over provisions related to the debt ceiling.
Musk, who has long been a vocal critic of the bill, expressed deep frustration in a post on X, formerly Twitter: “This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination. Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong.”
Despite Musk’s public condemnation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reaffirmed the administration’s position during a Tuesday briefing. “The president is committed to this bill. He knows where Elon Musk stands, but that does not change his opinion. This is one big, beautiful bill.”
Musk’s criticism stems from his experience leading cost-cutting initiatives at DOGE. He argues that the bill undermines efforts to reduce wasteful spending, a point echoed during a recent CBS interview where he expressed disappointment with the legislation’s failure to reflect the efficiency goals he pursued.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the divide but urged Musk to reconsider. “Much of Elon’s work targeted discretionary spending, which this bill doesn’t address. The reconciliation bill focuses on mandatory spending, but we want to incorporate the savings he identified,” Thune explained.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions within the GOP over how best to balance fiscal responsibility with legislative priorities. As the bill moves toward Senate consideration, these internal debates are expected to continue.