President Trump is calling for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) the oversight body originally championed by Elon Musk to scrutinize Musk’s companies and the massive subsidies they’ve received, particularly from environmental tax credits. The suggestion came in a sharp post early Tuesday, as tensions between Trump and Musk continue to escalate over the GOP’s flagship tax and spending bill.
The president’s remarks followed a fresh round of criticism from Musk, who slammed the bill on social media for gutting green energy incentives and labeled it “political suicide” for Republicans. In response, Trump took to Truth Social to push back, reminding followers of his long-standing opposition to electric vehicle mandates.
“Elon Musk knew, long before he so strongly Endorsed me for President, that I was strongly against the EV Mandate,” Trump wrote just after midnight. “It is ridiculous, and was always a major part of my campaign. Electric cars are fine, but not everyone should be forced to own one.”
Trump went on to suggest that Musk’s business empire has been propped up by government aid. “Elon may get more subsidy than any human being in history, by far,” Trump said. “Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa. No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a FORTUNE.”
He concluded with a pointed remark: “Perhaps we should have DOGE take a good, hard, look at this? BIG MONEY TO BE SAVED!!!”
Musk fired back quickly on X, the platform he owns, writing, “I am literally saying CUT IT ALL. Now.”
The clash marks another chapter in the rapidly souring relationship between the two former allies. Once seen as politically aligned, Musk and Trump have increasingly found themselves on opposite ends of the debate over the GOP’s “big, beautiful bill.” Musk has repeatedly denounced the legislation as reckless and damaging to innovation, while Trump has doubled down on pushing it through before the July 4 deadline.
The fight now has shifted beyond rhetoric, as Trump signals he may direct federal scrutiny toward Musk’s ventures—companies that have long been intertwined with government contracts and clean energy incentives. With billions in tax credits and subsidies at stake, the feud between the tech mogul and the president is becoming a high-stakes political and financial showdown.
