Elon Musk has vowed to unseat every lawmaker who supports Donald Trump’s “one big beautiful bill”, threatening to spend up to £1 billion of his personal fortune to block its passage and punish its political backers.
The tech billionaire launched his most aggressive political intervention to date, declaring that the bill represents “economic vandalism” and that any member of Congress who votes for it “will lose their primary next year if it’s the last thing I do on this Earth.” Musk made the pledge in a flurry of posts on his platform X, following a dramatic Senate session marked by a marathon of amendment votes.
At the heart of Musk’s fury is the bill’s estimated £2.6 trillion addition to the US deficit over ten years. The sweeping package combines corporate tax breaks, border wall spending, fossil fuel incentives and cuts to green energy subsidies—elements Musk claims will harm innovation and future-facing industries. Once a vocal supporter of Trump’s economic agenda, Musk has now emerged as one of its most high-profile critics.
Sources close to Musk confirmed plans to launch a political action committee focused on defeating incumbents who back the bill. The campaign would target both Republicans and Democrats, with particular attention on swing-state races where a well-financed challenger could shift outcomes. Musk’s growing discontent with the Republican establishment has also fuelled speculation about his intention to launch an “America Party” focused on fiscal responsibility, technological advancement and political reform.
Tensions between Musk and Trump escalated sharply after the proposed legislation included a rollback of electric vehicle tax credits, seen as a direct blow to Tesla’s interests. In response, the White House has reportedly initiated a review of SpaceX and Tesla’s federal contracts, further intensifying hostilities.
Despite the threats, Trump allies in Congress have brushed off Musk’s campaign as political theatre. Senate Republicans argue the bill is essential to restoring American industry and border security. However, privately, several lawmakers have admitted concern about Musk’s influence, particularly in online and financial arenas where he commands enormous reach.
Democrats, meanwhile, have seized on the conflict to highlight divisions within the Republican Party. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer mocked the situation by suggesting that “the party of business can’t even keep its favourite businessman on side.”
Analysts say Musk’s entry into the debate could reshape the legislative landscape. With his ability to reach over 160 million followers and a willingness to fund insurgent campaigns, he poses a rare external threat to established political machinery.
The Senate is expected to hold further votes on the bill this week before the Independence Day recess. Whether Musk’s intervention derails the legislation remains uncertain—but what is clear is that the tech titan is no longer content to sit on the sidelines.
REFH – newshub finance
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