On June 8 local time, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed disappointment over entrepreneur Elon Musk’s recent online criticism of both President Trump and the “Big and Beautiful” bill during an interview with ABC News. Responding to Musk’s earlier post claiming he had “never heard of” the bill, Johnson noted that he had engaged in numerous constructive conversations with Musk about the legislation to ensure he was properly informed.
Taking an uncharacteristically firm stance, Johnson made clear his position regarding the fallout between Trump and Musk: “This bill wasn’t written to please the richest man in the world.” He asserted that Musk’s criticism of the GOP-led tax and budget policy package would not hinder its passage. “What we’re trying to do,” Johnson insisted, “is help the hardworking Americans who are struggling to support their families and make ends meet.”
Over the past few days, Trump and Musk have publicly clashed on social media over the “Big and Beautiful” bill—a sweeping Republican-sponsored tax and spending proposal passed by the House last month. The online exchange quickly escalated into near-personal attacks.
On June 7 local time, President Trump warned that if Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk were to fund Democratic candidates opposing the Republican budget plan, there would be “very severe consequences,” stating, “If he does that, he’ll pay a price.” Trump did not specify what actions he might take, but added that he no longer had any interest in repairing his relationship with Musk. “I think that relationship is over,” he said.
Johnson, for his part, dismissed Musk’s reported threat to fund Republicans or even Democrats opposed to Trump’s bill.
“We’ve received very few calls from Republican lawmakers,” Johnson noted. “I think that shows people are taking a wait-and-see approach. Some may be persuaded by a few of his arguments, but others recognize this is a truly exciting piece of legislation.” He also maintained that Musk still believes the GOP’s policy framework is more conducive to human flourishing, economic growth in America, and innovation—including the industries Musk is deeply involved in, such as job creation and entrepreneurship.
Johnson added that he has remained in contact with Musk via text messages since the billionaire began publicly opposing the GOP bill. According to Johnson, Musk conveyed that his main concern lies with government spending. However, Johnson insisted that Musk is misinformed about the bill.
Other Republican lawmakers, meanwhile, have taken a more cautious approach regarding the Trump–Musk feud.