In a rapidly escalating feud between tech billionaire Elon Musk and top Republican leaders, House Speaker Mike Johnson fired back at Musk’s criticism of President Donald Trump’s domestic policy bill, while Musk made explosive—and unsubstantiated—claims about Trump’s alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The clash comes amid a sharp 15% drop in Tesla’s stock, triggered by Trump’s threat to strip Musk’s companies of federal subsidies.
Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the termination of the controversial “Quiet Skies” airport screening program, citing concerns over political bias.
Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments:
1. Mike Johnson Defends Trump’s Policies After Musk’s Criticism
The feud began when Elon Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter), questioning Speaker Mike Johnson’s fiscal conservatism, asking:
“Where is the Mike Johnson of 2023!?”
Musk was referencing an old tweet where Johnson had criticized rising national debt. Johnson quickly responded, defending his record and Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill”:
“The Mike Johnson of 2023 is the SAME Mike Johnson who has always been a lifelong fiscal hawk—who now serves as Speaker and is implementing a multi-stage plan to get our country back to fiscal responsibility and extraordinary economic growth.”
He touted the bill as including:
- The LARGEST mandatory spending cut in history (nearly 400% reduction)
- The LARGEST tax cut in history
- The BIGGEST border security investment in a generation
- The STRONGEST pro-growth policies ever passed
Johnson concluded:
“The same CONSISTENT Mike Johnson who has ALWAYS supported the America First Agenda.”
This exchange highlights growing tensions between Musk and the GOP, despite Musk’s previous alignment with conservative causes.
2. Musk Claims Trump is “In the Epstein Files” Without Evidence
In another explosive post, Musk alleged that Donald Trump is named in the unreleased Jeffrey Epstein files, suggesting this is why they remain sealed:
“Time to drop the really big bomb: @realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public. Have a nice day, DJT!”
He followed up:
“Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out.”
Key Context:
- Epstein conspiracy theories have long circulated in right-wing media, often suggesting a cover-up of powerful figures involved in his crimes.
- No evidence supports Musk’s claim. Investigative journalist Julie K. Brown (who broke the Epstein case) has stated there is no “client list”—just scattered references in legal documents.
- Trump and Epstein were associates in the early 2000s, but Trump banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago in 2007 after allegations arose.
- Trump’s AG Pam Bondi recently reviewed Epstein files but released only previously public information.
Why This Matters:
- Musk’s post could be an attempt to pressure Trump amid their feud.
- If unfounded, it risks further alienating conservatives who have supported Musk in recent years.
3. Tesla Stock Plummets as Trump Threatens to Cut Musk’s Subsidies
The conflict took a financial turn when Trump threatened to revoke federal subsidies for Musk’s companies:
“The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts.”
Market Impact:
- Tesla shares dropped 15%, wiping out $150 billion in market value.
- Musk’s net worth took a major hit (he remains the world’s richest person, but the drop is significant).
Background:
- Tesla has benefited from EV tax credits, SpaceX NASA contracts, and other federal support.
- Trump has historically supported Musk but appears to be retaliating for Musk’s Epstein claims and policy criticisms.
4. Homeland Security Ends “Quiet Skies” Program After GOP Backlash
In a separate but politically charged move, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced the termination of the “Quiet Skies” program, which flagged travelers for additional (but discreet) airport screening.
Why It Was Controversial:
- Reports revealed Tulsi Gabbard (former Democratic congresswoman turned Trump ally) was briefly on the list before becoming Director of National Intelligence.
- Noem accused the Biden administration of weaponizing the program:“It was used as a political rolodex—weaponized against foes and exploited to benefit friends.”
What’s Next?
- Noem called for a Congressional investigation into alleged abuses.
- Other TSA watchlists remain active, but “Quiet Skies” is now defunct.
Final Analysis: A High-Stakes Political and Financial Battle
- Musk vs. GOP Leadership – Once an ally, Musk is now clashing with Trump and Johnson, risking his influence in Washington.
- Epstein Gambit – Musk’s unproven claim could backfire, damaging his credibility if no evidence emerges.
- Market Fallout – Trump’s threat to cut subsidies shows he’s willing to target Musk’s empire financially.
- Security Policy Shift – Ending “Quiet Skies” signals a broader GOP push against Biden-era security measures.
Bottom Line: This feud is more than just social media sparring—it could reshape Musk’s political alliances, Tesla’s future, and DHS screening protocols.
