Trump escalates clash with Musk, hints at Deportation after ‘go back to Africa’ jibe

President Donald Trump has intensified his ongoing feud with Elon Musk, hinting at potential deportation and a review of federal contracts awarded to the billionaire’s companies after Musk publicly criticised Trump’s proposed ‘Big Beautiful Bill’.

Musk, once a major financial supporter of Trump’s 2024 campaign and appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) during Trump’s early months back in office, is now reportedly considering launching a new political party to oppose the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ which Trump is pushing in Congress.

In response to questions from reporters on Tuesday about Musk’s recent criticisms, Trump said, “We’ll have to take a look,” when asked whether he would consider deporting Musk, who became a US citizen in 2002.

Following Trump’s remarks, Musk responded on X, his social media platform, stating, “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”

Trump further suggested he may target the government contracts and subsidies that benefit Musk’s ventures, including SpaceX and Starlink. ‘We might have to put DOGE on Elon. DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon,’ Trump remarked, referencing the department led by Musk.

Tesla shares fell over 6% on Tuesday morning amid the escalating tension, as investors reacted to Trump’s comments.