On Tuesday, the White House stated that Elon Musk’s criticism of a major spending bill wouldn’t change the president’s views on the legislation.
During a briefing with reporters, Musk directed some comments to X, recalling how former President Donald Trump, current President Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Tune collaborated closely, referring to them as “bad.”
“Honestly, I can’t take it any longer. This enormous, wasteful spending bill is filled with bad intentions,” Musk expressed, declaring that specific government officials had lost their relevance. “I’m embarrassed for those who supported it. Deep down, you know it’s wrong.”
In response to Musk’s comments, White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt chuckled.
“Look, the president’s position on this bill is clear. It won’t change. This is a big, beautiful bill, and he stands firmly by it,” she said, smiling.
Johnson also prompted Musk to share his thoughts on the matter.
“With all due respect, my friend Elon has really misjudged the value of this bill,” Johnson remarked. Reporters noted that he had a friendly conversation with Musk recently.
Johnson mentioned that he and Musk spoke about the cuts to various green subsidies included in the House’s version of the bill.
“It’s unfortunate that he chose to criticize the entire bill. It’s surprising considering our discussion yesterday,” Johnson added.
This isn’t the first instance of Musk expressing discontent regarding the bill.
He mentioned to CBS Sunday Morning that he felt “disappointed” with the spending aspects of the bill, worrying it might negatively impact the work related to the Doge team.
“Will you see the bill expand? Is it beautiful? I think there’s beauty in it,” Musk shared, “but I’m not sure if it’s both. Just my thoughts.”
Doge Cuts specifically focus on discretionary spending, complicating Republican efforts to pass what they refer to as “one big beautiful bill.”
“Thus, adjustments to Doge Cuts must be approached through what’s known as a rescue package or expenditure bill,” he concluded.
