Elon Musk Critiques Trump’s Spending Bill, Departs from DOGE

Elon Musk on Wednesday night (Local time) announced that he is stepping down. He is leaving his role as a top adviser to US President Donald Trump. Musk concluded his tenure as a special government employee. He was tasked with leading a high-profile push to streamline federal bureaucracy.
‘My scheduled time comes to an end’

Taking to X, he wrote, “As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President @realDonaldTrump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending. The @DOGE mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government.”

A White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed Musk’s exit. Musk’s departure follows closely after his public criticism of Trump’s signature legislative proposal. This proposal is a sweeping tax and immigration bill. The president has dubbed it his “big beautiful bill.”

Musk, speaking Tuesday night to CBS, described the legislation as a “massive spending bill.” “I think a bill can be big or it could be beautiful,” Musk said. “But I don’t know if it could be both.”

Also read: Massive Nationwide Protests Erupt Against Trump-Musk Policies

His critique appeared to strike a chord with fiscal conservatives. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) agreed on Wednesday. At a Milwaukee Press Club event, he stated, “I sympathise with Elon being discouraged.” Johnson added that he was “pretty confident” that enough GOP opposition exists to slow down the measure. He believes this will continue until the administration “gets serious” about reducing spending.

‘It’s got a way to go’

Trump defends the bill

In response to the criticism, Trump defended the legislation. He spoke during remarks in the Oval Office. He called it a product of complex negotiations. “I’m not happy about certain aspects of it, but I’m thrilled by other aspects of it,” he said. “We’re going to see what happens. It’s got a way to go.” The bill, recently passed by the Republican-controlled House, now heads to the Senate, where debate is intensifying. House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged senators to avoid making significant changes. He warned that the legislation represents a “very delicate balance.” It could unravel if amended too heavily. The House will need to vote again once the Senate finalises its version.

Musk’s departure adds another twist to the already contentious legislative push. It signals growing tension within the Republican ranks over the future of fiscal policy.

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