Key Takeaways
• Trump threatens to deport Elon Musk despite his U.S. naturalized citizenship, linking it to criticism of the Big Beautiful Bill.
• DOGE, a federal agency led formerly by Musk, may audit Musk’s companies for subsidies and contracts.
• The Big Beautiful Bill includes a $5 trillion debt ceiling increase and phases out green energy and EV subsidies.
A high-profile feud between President Trump and Elon Musk has erupted into a national spectacle, raising questions about the use of federal power, the future of immigration enforcement, and the stability of political alliances in the United States 🇺🇸. The conflict, which intensified in late June and early July 2025, centers on President Trump’s push for the “Big Beautiful Bill”—a massive spending package—and Musk’s outspoken opposition to it. The situation has escalated to the point where Trump has publicly threatened to use the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to investigate Musk’s companies and has even floated the idea of deporting Musk, despite his status as a naturalized U.S. citizen.
This article breaks down the latest developments, the background of the feud, the legal and political implications, and what this means for immigrants, business leaders, and the broader American public.
Trump and Musk: A Feud Reignited
On July 1, 2025, President Trump told reporters that his administration would “have to take a look” at deporting Elon Musk after Musk criticized the administration’s “Big Beautiful Bill.” Musk had called the bill the “PORKY PIG PARTY” bill, focusing on its record $5 trillion increase to the national debt ceiling. Trump did not stop there. He also suggested, “We might have to put DOGE on Elon,” referencing the Department of Government Efficiency—a federal agency Musk once led. Trump now threatens to use DOGE to investigate Musk’s companies and the federal subsidies they receive.
These comments were made both in person and on Trump’s Truth Social platform. On social media, Trump accused Musk of being upset about the bill’s elimination of electric vehicle (EV) subsidies, which would directly impact Tesla, one of Musk’s flagship companies.
Musk, who was born in South Africa and became a U.S. citizen through naturalization, responded on X (formerly Twitter). He hinted that he was tempted to escalate the feud but would “refrain for now.” Musk also threatened to fund GOP primary challengers and floated the idea of launching a new “America Party” focused on fiscal responsibility.
Background: From Allies to Adversaries
The relationship between Trump and Musk was not always so tense. Musk was a major supporter of Trump, helping the GOP break fundraising records in 2024 and even serving as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at the start of Trump’s current administration. Their alliance began to unravel when Musk started criticizing Trump’s legislative priorities, especially the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Musk argues that the bill will balloon the federal deficit and undermine fiscal discipline.
The bill itself includes provisions that phase out green energy tax credits and EV subsidies. These incentives have been crucial to Tesla’s business model. Trump claims Musk’s opposition is self-interested, while Musk insists his concern is about the bill’s overall fiscal impact.
Key Players and Their Positions
- President Trump: Pushing for the “Big Beautiful Bill,” threatening to use DOGE to investigate Musk’s companies, and not ruling out deportation—even though Musk is a U.S. citizen.
- Elon Musk: CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X; former DOGE head; major GOP donor turned critic; threatening to fund primary challengers and possibly launch a third party.
- Congressional Republicans: Divided, with some supporting Trump’s bill and others wary of Musk’s influence and threats to back primary challengers.
- Congressional Budget Office: Estimates the bill will add at least $4 trillion to the national debt by 2034, with potential for more if temporary provisions are extended.
DOGE and the Threat of Investigation
Trump’s threat to use the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) against Musk is significant. DOGE, a federal agency focused on reviewing government spending and efficiency, could be directed to audit Musk’s companies. This could include a review of government contracts and subsidies that benefit Tesla, SpaceX, and related ventures. If DOGE recommends terminating these contracts or subsidies, it could jeopardize billions of dollars in federal support.
Such actions would require a formal administrative review. If Musk’s companies believe the review is unfair or politically motivated, they could challenge it in court. This process could take months or even years, but the threat alone creates uncertainty for Musk’s businesses and employees.
Deportation: Legal Realities and Political Theater
Perhaps the most dramatic element of the feud is Trump’s suggestion that Musk could be deported. Musk is a naturalized U.S. citizen, which means he went through the legal process to become a citizen after being born in another country. Under U.S. law, a naturalized citizen cannot be deported unless their citizenship is first revoked through a process called denaturalization.
Denaturalization is rare and usually only happens if the government can prove that the person lied or committed fraud during the naturalization process, or if they are convicted of certain serious crimes. As of July 1, 2025, there is no evidence or allegation that Musk committed any such acts. Legal experts widely view Trump’s deportation threat as political theater, meant to intimidate or discredit Musk rather than as a serious legal action.
For more information on the rights of naturalized citizens and the denaturalization process, readers can visit the U.S. Department of Justice.
Political Fallout: Risks for Both Sides
The feud between Trump and Musk is not just a personal spat—it has real political consequences. Musk’s threats to fund primary challengers and possibly launch a new political party could destabilize the Republican Party ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Musk has a large following on social media and significant financial resources, making his threats credible.
Some Congressional Republicans support Trump’s bill, while others are wary of Musk’s influence. If Musk follows through on his threats, it could lead to bitter primary battles and weaken GOP unity. Political analysts warn that this could impact the party’s chances in the midterms and beyond.
Business Implications: Billions at Stake
The “Big Beautiful Bill” includes provisions that phase out green energy tax credits and EV subsidies. These incentives have been a major part of Tesla’s business model, helping the company grow and compete in the electric vehicle market. If these subsidies are eliminated, Tesla could face financial challenges, and the broader U.S. electric vehicle industry could lose ground to competitors in other countries.
If DOGE investigates and recommends ending federal contracts with Musk’s companies, the impact could be even greater. SpaceX, for example, has major contracts with NASA and the Department of Defense. Losing these contracts could affect not only Musk’s companies but also U.S. leadership in space exploration and technology.
Legal and Procedural Details
- DOGE Actions: If President Trump directs DOGE to investigate Musk’s companies, the agency could audit government contracts and subsidies. Any recommendation to terminate contracts would require a formal process and could be challenged in court.
- Deportation Process: For a naturalized citizen like Musk, deportation would require denaturalization proceedings. This process is usually initiated by the Department of Justice and requires strong evidence of fraud or criminal activity at the time of naturalization. No such process has been started against Musk.
Summary Table: Trump vs. Musk Feud (July 2025)
| Aspect | Trump’s Position | Musk’s Position | Practical Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spending Bill | Pushes “Big Beautiful Bill,” cuts EV credits | Opposes bill, cites deficit concerns | Bill adds $4–5T to debt, cuts subsidies |
| DOGE Threat | May use DOGE to investigate Musk’s companies | Former DOGE head, now target | Potential loss of federal contracts |
| Deportation Threat | “Will take a look” at deporting Musk | Naturalized citizen, no crime alleged | Legally unlikely, but politically charged |
| Political Fallout | Seeks to neutralize Musk’s influence | Threatens to fund challengers, new party | GOP unity at risk, midterm impact |
Expert Analysis and Broader Implications
Legal experts agree that deporting a naturalized citizen like Musk would be extremely difficult without clear evidence of wrongdoing. The threat is seen as more of a political message than a real legal risk. However, the use of federal agencies like DOGE to investigate political opponents raises concerns about the politicization of government power.
Political analysts say that Musk’s ability to raise money and influence public opinion could make him a powerful force in upcoming elections. If he launches a new party or funds primary challengers, it could reshape the political landscape.
Business analysts warn that if Tesla and SpaceX lose federal support, it could hurt U.S. innovation and leadership in key industries. The uncertainty created by the feud could also affect investor confidence and job security for thousands of employees.
What This Means for Immigrants and Business Leaders
For immigrants, the feud highlights the importance of understanding the rights and protections that come with naturalization. While the threat of deportation is alarming, the legal process for revoking citizenship is strict and requires strong evidence. Naturalized citizens should know that their status is secure unless there is proof of fraud or serious crime.
For business leaders, the situation shows how quickly political winds can change. Companies that rely on government contracts or subsidies should be prepared for shifts in policy and the risk of political scrutiny. Open communication with employees and stakeholders is key during uncertain times.
Next Steps and What to Watch
The “Big Beautiful Bill” is close to final passage, with only a few House Republicans standing in the way after Senate approval on July 1, 2025. All eyes are on the House vote and Musk’s next moves. Will he escalate the feud, fund primary challengers, or launch a new political party? The answers could shape the future of American politics and business.
Watchdog groups and legal organizations are preparing for possible legal challenges if DOGE is used as a political weapon. The situation is evolving quickly, and further developments are expected in the coming days and weeks.
Practical Guidance for Readers
- Naturalized Citizens: Know your rights. Deportation is only possible if citizenship is revoked through a legal process, which requires strong evidence of fraud or crime.
- Business Leaders: Stay informed about changes in government policy that could affect contracts or subsidies. Prepare for possible audits or reviews.
- Political Observers: Follow official sources for updates on the “Big Beautiful Bill” and any actions taken by DOGE or other federal agencies.
For official updates and to contact the White House, visit the White House Press Office.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the Trump-Musk feud is a reminder of how immigration status, government power, and business interests can intersect in unexpected ways. The coming weeks will reveal whether this conflict is a passing storm or a sign of deeper changes in American politics and policy.
Conclusion
The clash between President Trump and Elon Musk over the “Big Beautiful Bill,” the role of the Department of Government Efficiency, and the threat of deportation has captured national attention. While the legal risks to Musk’s citizenship appear low, the political and business stakes are high. The outcome of this feud could have lasting effects on the Republican Party, the business community, and the rights of immigrants in the United States 🇺🇸. Readers should stay informed, know their rights, and be prepared for further developments as this story continues to unfold.
Learn Today
Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) → A federal agency reviewing government spending and efficiency, previously led by Elon Musk.
Naturalized Citizen → An immigrant granted U.S. citizenship after fulfilling legal residency and application requirements.
Denaturalization → Legal process to revoke citizenship for fraud or serious crimes committed during naturalization.
Big Beautiful Bill → A massive spending package proposed by Trump, increasing debt and cutting green energy subsidies.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Subsidies → Government financial incentives that support the electric vehicle industry, benefiting companies like Tesla.
This Article in a Nutshell
The Trump-Musk feud highlights political risks over the Big Beautiful Bill. Threats of deportation and investigations overshadow fiscal debates and GOP unity amid growing tensions in 2025’s U.S. political landscape.
— By VisaVerge.com
