Key Highlights:
- Trump threatens to deport Musk and cut Tesla/SpaceX subsidies.
- Musk responds calmly but warns he may "escalate."
- Legal experts confirm Musk cannot be deported as he is a U.S. citizen.
U.S. President Donald Trump has openly criticised Tesla CEO Elon Musk and even threatened to deport him, following Musk’s sharp comments on Trump’s proposed tax and spending bill.
Trump’s remarks came after Musk called the bill “insane” and warned of its negative effects on the U.S. economy and national debt.
Trump Suggests Cutting Musk’s Subsidies
Speaking to reporters, Trump said Musk’s businesses, like Tesla and SpaceX, receive large government subsidies. He hinted that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) might review these subsidies to save taxpayer money.
“We might have to put DOGE on Elon,” Trump said, adding that Musk benefits more from subsidies than any other person. He also posted on Truth Social, saying Musk would "have to close up shop" without them.
Deportation Threat and Musk’s Response
Trump even suggested that Musk should return to South Africa, saying, “No more rocket launches, no more electric cars.”
However, Musk is a naturalised U.S. citizen since 2002, so he cannot be deported unless his citizenship is revoked through denaturalisation, which is a rare and complex legal process.
In response to Trump’s comments, Musk said, “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”
Once Allies, Now Rivals
Elon Musk had previously supported Trump and even donated to his campaign for a second term. But the relationship has soured recently, especially over the USD 4 trillion tax and spending bill.
Musk is against removing EV subsidies and has threatened to support opposition against lawmakers backing the bill. He also hinted at helping create a third political party in the United States.
