U.S. President Donald Trump said he would “have to take a look” at the possibility of deporting billionaire Elon Musk, after the Tesla CEO publicly criticized the administration’s new tax and spending bill. Though Musk is a U.S. citizen, Trump’s remarks mark a sharp escalation in tensions between the two.

The confrontation comes after Musk labeled the legislation—which ends key tax credits for electric vehicle purchases—an “insane spending bill.” Tesla shares fell more than 4% in premarket trading following Trump’s comments.

From Ally to Critic

Musk, a South African-born entrepreneur, supported Trump in the 2024 election and briefly led a federal task force on government efficiency. He has since distanced himself from the administration over its economic policies. Trump suggested Musk’s opposition stems from losing subsidies tied to EV mandates. “Elon could lose a lot more than that,” Trump warned.

Social Media Barbs and Policy Threats

Trump also took to social media to threaten the withdrawal of all federal subsidies benefiting Musk’s companies. He referenced the government task force Musk once led—DOGE—saying, “DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon.”

The revived feud underscores political tensions over climate policy, tax incentives, and influence within the Republican Party ahead of the 2026 midterms.