US President Donald Trump has warned Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk that he may face deportation to South Africa if electric vehicle (EV) subsidies are withdrawn.
Trump issued the statement late Tuesday (US time) on his Truth Social platform, escalating tensions between the former allies.
“Elon Musk knew, long before he so strongly Endorsed me for President, that I was strongly against the EV Mandate,” Trump wrote. “Electric cars are fine, but not everyone should be forced to own one.” He claimed Musk received more subsidies than any person in history and may have to ‘close up shop and head back home to South Africa’ without them.
Trump added, “No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a FORTUNE.” He even called on DOGE—the Department of Government Efficiency, which Musk once headed—to investigate the matter.
In response, Musk attacked lawmakers who supported the so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’—Trump’s 940-page tax-cut and spending package.
The US Senate narrowly advanced the bill on Saturday with a 51–49 procedural vote. The package includes extended 2017 tax cuts, increased military and border spending, and cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and renewable energy programmes.
“Every member of Congress who campaigned on reducing government spending and then immediately voted for the biggest debt increase in history should hang their head in shame!” Musk posted on X. He added, “And they will lose their primary next year if it is the last thing I do on this Earth.”
Musk also threatened to form a new political party, the “American Party,” if the bill passes in the Senate.
The EV subsidies controversy highlights a growing divide between Trump and Musk. Once close allies, the two now find themselves on opposite sides of a heated policy debate.
Trump argues that EV mandates and subsidies distort the market, while Musk defends their role in advancing innovation and clean technology.
Trump’s comments have drawn criticism from both sides, with some calling the deportation remark extreme. Meanwhile, Musk’s aggressive political stance signals a shift from tech entrepreneur to vocal political agitator.
The outcome of the Senate debate could shape not only US economic policy but also the future of the electric vehicle industry.
Also Read: Brazil Eyes India’s Akash Missile And Garuda Guns Ahead Of PM Modi’s BRICS Visit
Former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recounted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valour at the Jaanta Raja…
Singer B Praak became emotional at the conclusion of Shrimad Bhagwat Katha in Chandigarh, where…
Mundra Port has become a major hub for India’s maritime trade under the Adani Group.…
Amitabh Bachchan has indicated that he needs further rest, following his announcement of a temporary…
Adani Green Energy recorded strong growth in electricity sales and operating earnings during the first…
The Indian Army has rejected claims by a Pakistan-linked social media account alleging a crackdown,…