Trump says without subsidies Musk would have to ‘head back home to South Africa’ - then threatens to investigate him with DOGE
Trump threatens to use DOGE to investigate Musk in fresh taunt
- Donald Trump threatened to use the Department of Government Efficiency to investigate federal subsidies received by Elon Musk’s companies, including SpaceX and Tesla.
- The threats followed Musk's escalating anti-Republican rhetoric and his scathing criticism of Trump’s proposed tax bill.
- Trump suggested that without subsidies, Musk might have to “close up shop and head back home to South Africa,” and hinted at ending rocket launches, satellites, and electric car production.
- Musk promised to bankroll primary challenges against Republican lawmakers who vote for Trump’s multi-trillion-dollar tax bill, which he believes will add significantly to the national debt.
- Musk also suggested forming a new 'America Party' if the tax bill passes, aiming to provide an alternative to the current two-party system.