Musk on Trump's tax bill: 'Bankrupting America is not OK'

WASHINGTON: Tech billionaire Elon Musk has called on United States (US) citizens to pressure lawmakers to vote down US President Donald Trump's key tax and spending bill, German Press Agency (dpa) reported.

AI Brief

Elon Musk slammed Trump-backed debt bill, saying it worsens the deficit and urged the public to demand its rejection.
He warned lawmakers of backlash in the 2026 elections if they support the bill.
Critics suggest Musk's opposition may be tied to EV tax credit cuts affecting Tesla.

In a post on his platform X on Wednesday, Musk wrote: "Call your Senator, Call your Congressman. Bankrupting America is NOT ok! KILL the BILL."

Musk, who was recently involved in federal cost-cutting efforts, has sharply criticised what Trump calls the "Big Beautiful Bill" for raising the debt ceiling without sufficient spending cuts.

He warned the measure would increase the deficit and accelerate national debt.

Musk had previously described the plan as a "disgusting abomination" and warned lawmakers they would face voter backlash in the 2026 midterm elections if they supported it.

Trump has not directly responded to Musk's campaign. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson said after speaking with the president that he was "not delighted."

Johnson also questioned Musk's motives, noting the bill includes cuts to electric vehicle tax credits, which could negatively impact his e-car company Tesla.

The legislation passed the House in May by a narrow margin but faces resistance in the Senate, including from members of Trump's own Republican Party, which holds a majority in both chambers.

-- BERNAMA