Electric vehicle tax credits, Gaza ceasefire, and political ambitions fuel fresh fire
The ongoing feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has taken a new turn. Despite sharp words from Trump, Musk recently praised the former US President for helping resolve global conflicts.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk reacted to a post from Trump’s Truth Social account. The post claimed that Israel had agreed to a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. Musk responded, saying, “Credit where credit is due”, and praised Trump for resolving “several serious conflicts around the world.”
This surprising praise came just a day after Trump launched a scathing attack on Musk. The former President warned Musk to “shut shop” and “go back home” over Musk’s criticism of Trump’s proposed ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’.
The bill in question could end the $7,500 tax credit given to consumers for buying electric vehicles (EVs). This policy is important for Tesla’s sales, and Musk has strongly opposed it.
In a reply to Trump’s outburst, Musk said, “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”
Trump also claimed Musk had received “more subsidies than any human being in history”. He mocked Musk, suggesting that without government support, he would have to return to South Africa.
Adding insult to injury, Trump joked that the now-defunct Tesla cost-cutting department called “Doge” should look into Musk’s subsidies and government contracts.
The fight between the two billionaires reflects deeper political and economic issues. Musk has even threatened to launch his own political party, the “American Party,” if Trump’s bill becomes law.
Trump, on the other hand, remains firm in his opposition to electric vehicle mandates. He called Biden’s EV policies “ridiculous” and said he would continue to fight them as part of his 2024 campaign.
Meanwhile, the US Senate narrowly passed a massive tax-and-spending bill this week. It promises tax cuts, increased military and immigration spending, and cuts to social safety programs. However, it will also add $3.3 trillion to the national debt.
The Trump-Musk clash is not just personal. It highlights the growing tension between tech leaders and politicians, especially as the 2024 US election draws closer.
