In a fresh escalation of tensions between two of the most high-profile figures in American politics and business, former U.S. President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, responding to Musk’s recent suggestion that a new political party might be necessary.
Trump, posting on social media, ridiculed the Biden administration’s electric vehicle (EV) mandate, labeling it “ridiculous” and reiterating his position that while EVs are acceptable, Americans should not be forced into using them. “Let the market decide, not the government,” Trump said, reinforcing one of his key campaign talking points.
The former president didn’t stop there. Turning his sights on Elon Musk, Trump claimed that the billionaire entrepreneur has received “more subsidy than any human being in history.” He suggested that without government support, Musk would be forced to “close up shop and head back home to South Africa,” bringing an end to Tesla’s EVs, SpaceX’s rocket launches, and Starlink satellites.
Injecting his trademark sarcasm, Trump added, “DOGE should take a good, hard look at this,” in what appeared to be a dig at both Musk’s cryptocurrency involvement and the flow of taxpayer money into Musk’s ventures.
The clash comes amid growing speculation about political realignments ahead of the 2024 U.S. election, with Musk becoming increasingly vocal about his disillusionment with both major parties. While it’s unclear whether Musk will pursue a new party in earnest, Trump’s response makes clear that any such move would be met with fierce resistance from the former president and his base.
This latest exchange highlights the complex relationship between innovation, politics, and government policy, as America navigates the transition to clean energy and new economic models.
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