NEW DELHI: The explosive public feud between U.S. President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, sparked by disagreements over the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” has drawn sharp reactions from U.S. officials and international figures, reflecting its far-reaching implications. Musk, the former head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), called the bill a “disgusting abomination” on X, citing its projected $2.4 trillion addition to the U.S. national debt.
Trump retaliated, threatening to cut billions in federal contracts to Musk’s companies, including SpaceX, and accusing him of opposing the bill due to its elimination of electric vehicle subsidies.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed disappointment, calling Musk’s criticism “very surprising” given prior discussions, and defended the bill as essential for economic growth. Conversely, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) backed Musk, warning on X that the bill’s debt increase is “a huge mistake.”
House Democrat Dan Goldman seized on Musk’s claim that Trump’s name appears in unreleased Jeffrey Epstein files, demanding their immediate release. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed Musk’s Epstein allegations as “unfortunate,” insisting Trump remains focused on passing the bill.
Internationally, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, present during Trump’s Oval Office remarks, appeared bemused but declined to comment directly. Billionaire Bill Ackman, a Trump supporter, urged reconciliation on X, stating, “We are stronger together.”
Political analyst Michael Wolff said that the feud underscores Trump’s penchant for “conflict,” while Republican pollster Frank Luntz predicted both men would regret the escalation.
As Tesla shares plummeted 14%, wiping out $150 billion in market value, global markets and leaders are closely monitoring this clash between two titans.
