Trump Treasury Secretary Fires Back at Elon Musk: ‘Sticks to Rockets’

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back Tuesday against Elon Musk’s criticism of Republicans supporting President Donald Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” saying the legislation is crucial to getting the nation’s finances under control.

Speaking with Laura Ingraham on Fox News, Bessent dismissed Musk’s threats to back primary challengers against GOP lawmakers who vote for the bill. “If Elon sticks to rockets, I’ll stick to finance,” Bessent quipped, referring to Musk’s role at SpaceX.

Bessent insisted the legislation would pay down the national debt over time and noted, “There were 50 senators who weren’t threatened by his words.” The Senate passed the bill Tuesday in a 51-50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie.

Bessent fires back at @elonmusk criticism

“If Elon sticks to rockets, I’ll stick to finance. I’m confident this bill pays down debt. 50 senators weren’t threatened by his words— @VP broke the tie. Trump’s shown incredible leadership moving this forward.” —Treasury… pic.twitter.com/Rqxpp7DXeU

— Laura Ingraham (@IngrahamAngle) July 1, 2025

Three Republicans — Sens. Thom Tillis, Rand Paul, and Susan Collins — voted against the package. The bill now heads to the House, where GOP leaders are rushing to meet Trump’s July 4 deadline for final approval.

The sweeping legislation includes an extension of the 2017 tax cuts, increased funding for the military and border security, deregulation for energy producers, and a multi-trillion-dollar debt ceiling hike. Critics warn it could add trillions to the national debt, while supporters argue it will supercharge economic growth.

Musk, once a key Trump ally, turned sharply against the bill, accusing Republican backers of betraying promises to reduce spending. “They will lose their primary next year if it’s the last thing I do on this Earth!” he wrote on X.

Trump fired back, suggesting that Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, had turned into a “monster” and hinted that federal subsidies to Musk’s companies could be on the chopping block. “DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon,” Trump said.

Rep. Thomas Massie, one of the bill’s vocal GOP opponents, has won support from Musk, while Tillis announced he won’t seek re-election — a move some see as fallout from the MAGA base’s growing fury.

Despite intraparty friction, Bessent voiced confidence in the bill’s chances. “President Trump has shown incredible leadership,” he said, praising efforts by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson to unify the Republican majorities and push the bill across the finish line.