[By Guancha Observer Network, Xiong Chaoyi] On June 3rd local time, Musk criticized Trump's "Build Back Better" bill as "disgusting," causing a huge stir. Are these two once-intimate people going to completely "break up"?
Late that evening, Axios News Network exclusively reported, citing two sources who had communicated with Musk, that the billionaire's true dissatisfaction stems from not receiving preferential treatment in this bill and Trump's overall administration policies. The sources said there were four "turning points" leading to his sharp attack on the Trump bill.
1. This bill cuts the electric vehicle tax credit policy, which originally benefited Tesla and other car companies under Musk. By the end of April this year, Musk's company had spent at least $240,000 lobbying on this tax credit policy and other corporate affairs. The sources said Musk himself had also covertly pushed for the retention of this policy in the bill, but it was futile.
2. Musk previously worked at the White House, being hired as a "special government employee." The statutory term of this unpaid advisory position should not exceed 130 days, but he attempted to negotiate an extension. Ultimately, White House officials clearly stated that he could no longer continue in this role.
3. The sources said that Musk also tried to push the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to incorporate his "Starlink" satellite system into the national air traffic control system. However, due to concerns over conflicts of interest and technical considerations, the government rejected the request. Another source said, "The air traffic control system cannot fully rely on satellites for operation."
4. The "last straw" that broke Musk seemed to be when the White House suddenly announced on May 31st local time that Trump would withdraw his nomination of Jared Isaacman (Jared Isaacman) for NASA Administrator. Isaacman is a close ally and friend of Musk.
Trump and Musk, data photos.
Axios News Network disclosed that after Isaacman's nomination was withdrawn, internal messages within the White House quickly spread the word that Sergio Gor, director of the president's personnel office, who had previously clashed with Musk, was the mastermind behind this decision.
"This is Sergio's 'farewell greeting' to Musk," one White House official bluntly stated.
"But appearances are reality, I am sure Elon will view NASA's matter as the ultimate humiliation," the White House official admitted frankly.
Axios News Network pointed out that Musk's controversial post was published during a White House briefing, shocking Trump's team and marking the escalating tensions between Musk and the current administration since his departure last week.
The report said that Musk had previously criticized this bill, but his words were more restrained and低调. Two sources who frequently communicate with him told Axios News Network that Musk and Trump are still friends and allies, but Trump is somewhat annoyed by Musk's "undermining behavior" on social media.
"Elon is very frustrated," one source said. Axios News Network reporters were unable to reach Musk's spokesperson.
Musk called the "Build Back Better" bill "disgusting," screenshot of the post.
On June 3rd local time, just four days after retiring, Musk couldn't help but criticize the "Build Back Better" tax reform bill proposed by Republicans. Aimed at cutting taxes and welfare, the bill has been questioned for increasing the federal deficit. It narrowly passed in the House of Representatives by one vote.
"I'm sorry, but I can't stand it anymore," Musk posted on the social media platform X. "This large-scale, ridiculous, and politically manipulative congressional spending bill is disgusting (disgusting abomination)."
He pointed out: "Those who voted for this bill are disgraceful: you know you did wrong. You know it in your heart."
Later, as one of the largest donors to the Republican Party in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, Musk continued to post scathing criticism of the bill. He wrote: "This will greatly increase the already enormous budget deficit to $2.5 trillion and impose an unbearable debt burden on American citizens."
"Next November, we will fire all politicians who betray the American people," Musk referred here to the U.S. midterm elections to be held next year. At that time, most members of Congress will face re-election in the midterm elections, including all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, each serving a two-year term, and 33 or 34 seats in the Senate, which has 100 seats.
According to NBC News, later on the evening of the 3rd, when White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt was asked about Musk's comments, she responded: "The President is aware of Musk's stance on this bill. But that won't change the President's view. This is a 'Build Back Better' bill, and he will stick to it." The White House declined further comment.
This article is an exclusive piece by the Guancha Observer Network and cannot be reprinted without permission.
Original source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7511964517463491124/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views, and you are welcome to express your attitude by clicking the "Like/Dislike" button below.