A new public dispute broke out between Donald Trump and Elon Musk over US subsidies. Trump accused Musk of receiving "more subsidies than anyone else" and added: "Without subsidies, Elon would have to close his business and return to South Africa."
The conflict was triggered by Musk's sharp criticism of the Trump-backed "Big Beautiful Bill", a comprehensive tax and spending bill in the US Senate. Musk described the bill as a "disgusting abomination" and warned that it would "destroy millions of jobs".
Trump responded again on his Truth Social platform and suggested that the DOGE office should review Musk's subsidies, as this could "save a huge amount of money". He reiterated that without subsidies, neither electric cars nor rocket launches or the production of satellites would be possible.
The conflict is already having an impact on the stock market. Tesla shares lost more than 6 % in value at times as investors shied away from possible regulatory or financial consequences for the company as a result of this political exchange of blows.
The dispute marks a turning point in the relationship between Trump and Musk, who were once close allies. Musk was a major supporter of Trump's election campaign, saving his election chances and working briefly in government. The latest escalation signals a strategic rift that could have both political and economic consequences.
