Trump Warns Elon Musk of 'Severe Consequences' Over Democratic Funding
President Donald Trump signals a potential rift with billionaire Elon Musk following comments on tax legislation and campaign contributions.
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning to billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk on Saturday, stating that there would be 'severe consequences' if Musk chooses to financially support the Democratic Party in the face of Republican efforts to back Trump's comprehensive tax and spending bill.
Trump's remarks follow his characterization of their relationship, indicating it has come to an end.
In a telephone interview with NBC News, Trump refrained from detailing the potential consequences, asserting that he had not engaged in discussions regarding any investigations related to Musk.
When questioned about whether he believed his relationship with Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, had concluded, Trump responded affirmatively, saying, 'I assume so, yes.' He further indicated a lack of desire to mend ties with Musk, replying, 'No' when asked about any intention to restore their rapport.
The tension between Trump and Musk escalated recently after Musk publicly criticized Trump's legislative proposal, labeling it a 'disgusting abomination.' This opposition complicates the Republicans' efforts to pass the legislation in Congress, where they hold a slim majority in both the House and Senate.
Last month, the House of Representatives narrowly approved the proposed legislation, which is currently under consideration in the Senate where Republicans are discussing potential amendments.
Analysts have projected that the bill could increase the U.S. national debt by $2.4 trillion over the next decade.
Trump expressed confidence that the legislation would secure approval ahead of the Independence Day holiday on July 4. In his interview, he noted, 'In fact, yes, those who would have voted for it will now vote for it enthusiastically, and we expect it to be approved.'
Additionally, Musk has deleted some social media posts where he criticized Trump, including one expressing support for Trump's impeachment, suggesting an attempt to mitigate the public feud that escalated earlier in the week.
Meanwhile, Trump hinted on Friday at revisiting federal contracts with Musk's companies.
Sources close to Musk have indicated that his anger may be subsiding, and there is speculation that he might be inclined to repair his relationship with Trump.
Trump's remarks follow his characterization of their relationship, indicating it has come to an end.
In a telephone interview with NBC News, Trump refrained from detailing the potential consequences, asserting that he had not engaged in discussions regarding any investigations related to Musk.
When questioned about whether he believed his relationship with Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, had concluded, Trump responded affirmatively, saying, 'I assume so, yes.' He further indicated a lack of desire to mend ties with Musk, replying, 'No' when asked about any intention to restore their rapport.
The tension between Trump and Musk escalated recently after Musk publicly criticized Trump's legislative proposal, labeling it a 'disgusting abomination.' This opposition complicates the Republicans' efforts to pass the legislation in Congress, where they hold a slim majority in both the House and Senate.
Last month, the House of Representatives narrowly approved the proposed legislation, which is currently under consideration in the Senate where Republicans are discussing potential amendments.
Analysts have projected that the bill could increase the U.S. national debt by $2.4 trillion over the next decade.
Trump expressed confidence that the legislation would secure approval ahead of the Independence Day holiday on July 4. In his interview, he noted, 'In fact, yes, those who would have voted for it will now vote for it enthusiastically, and we expect it to be approved.'
Additionally, Musk has deleted some social media posts where he criticized Trump, including one expressing support for Trump's impeachment, suggesting an attempt to mitigate the public feud that escalated earlier in the week.
Meanwhile, Trump hinted on Friday at revisiting federal contracts with Musk's companies.
Sources close to Musk have indicated that his anger may be subsiding, and there is speculation that he might be inclined to repair his relationship with Trump.
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