In a dramatic turn of events, US President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk have rekindled their contentious relationship, marked by Trump's recent threats to deport Musk and withdraw federal funding from his companies. This clash follows Musk's outspoken criticism of the president's signature spending initiative, formally known as the 'One Big Beautiful Bill.'

Elon Musk, acknowledged as the world’s richest individual, was once Trump’s most significant political supporter during the lead-up to the 2024 election, and he served as a close ally during Trump’s early days back in the White House. Musk was appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency, affectionately abbreviated as DOGE. However, tensions have escalated, and Musk is now contemplating the establishment of a new political party to counter the Republican establishment that supported Trump's ambitious spending bill.

The Republican-controlled US Senate recently approved a substantial tax and spending package that not only consolidates many of Trump's key policy objectives but also adds a staggering $3.3 trillion to the national debt. The bill is now set to return to the House of Representatives for final endorsement, signaling a crucial step forward in Trump's legislative agenda.

As he made his way to the inauguration of a new migrant detention facility in Florida, which has been dubbed 'Alligator Alcatraz,' Trump weighed in on Musk's remarks. When questioned about the possibility of deporting Musk, who has been a US citizen since 2002, Trump remarked, 'We'll have to take a look.' This statement hinted at the potential for retaliatory measures against Musk’s businesses, particularly concerning the extensive contracts and subsidies that SpaceX and Starlink receive from the federal government.

Trump's rhetoric took a particularly sharp turn when he suggested that Musk might need to face consequences for his criticism. 'We might have to put DOGE on Elon,' Trump quipped, referencing the department he once assigned Musk to lead. He added, 'You know what DOGE is? DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon.'

In a playful yet tense reply on X, Musk commented on Trump’s deportation threats, saying, 'So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.' This exchange reflects the ongoing rivalry between the two, which has only intensified since Musk publicly criticized the spending bill.

In recent days, Tesla's stock took a notable hit, dropping around 5% following the news of Musk’s criticisms. Trump had previously suggested that Musk’s dissatisfaction with the bill arose from the omission of provisions that would support the electric vehicle industry, stating, 'Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa.'

The dynamic between Trump and Musk has shifted dramatically from their earlier camaraderie. Musk was often seen wearing MAGA baseball caps and stood by Trump's side during key moments of his presidency, while Trump, in turn, supported Tesla when the company faced criticism over cost-cutting measures initiated by Musk during his tenure at DOGE.

The rift became apparent during a public dispute in May when Musk criticized the spending bill and subsequently distanced himself from the government. Despite a period of relative silence, Musk has re-emerged on social media, voicing his dissent against the bill, which he claims could exacerbate the US deficit and hinder the nation's leadership in the electric vehicle and clean energy sectors.

'All I'm asking is that we don't bankrupt America,' Musk remarked on social media, accusing Republicans of endorsing 'debt slavery.' His concerns extend further, as he is actively working to influence the political landscape ahead of the 2026 US midterm elections, targeting vulnerable Republican lawmakers who supported the bill despite prior commitments to reduce federal spending.

Musk has indicated that if Trump’s spending bill passes, he might establish a political movement called the 'America Party' and financially support challengers to politicians who have betrayed their promises. Following this declaration, he posted a poll on X, stating, 'VOX POPULI VOX DEI 80% voted for a new party.'