Elon Musk criticized the GOP’s tax bill for worsening the deficit and undermining DOGE cuts, prompting mixed reactions from Republicans.

Republicans Push Back as Musk Challenges Tax and Spending Priorities

Elon Musk’s public criticism of House Republicans’ flagship tax legislation has reignited debate within the GOP, with some lawmakers expressing frustration over the billionaire’s remarks while others support his fiscal concerns. Musk described the Trump-backed bill as a "massive spending bill" that increases the federal deficit and undermines efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

House Republicans passed the broad legislative package last week, advancing President Donald Trump’s policy priorities on taxes, immigration, defense, and energy. The bill is moving through the budget reconciliation process, which allows passage without needing a Senate supermajority. Musk, however, told CBS that the bill undermines DOGE’s work and fails to deliver meaningful discretionary spending cuts.

“This is why Mr. Musk has no place in Congress,” said one House Republican, speaking anonymously. “He wants to codify discretionary cuts, but didn’t identify enough waste or abuse to offset even basic programs like the SBA.”

Republican lawmakers clarified that DOGE cuts, which target discretionary spending, cannot be implemented through reconciliation—a process focused on mandatory funding programs. Speaker Mike Johnson affirmed that DOGE’s recommendations would be pursued in a separate legislative vehicle, not in the current bill.

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., defended the bill’s scope, emphasizing its benefits for middle-class families. “The biggest winners are not billionaires like Musk but working families who will receive real tax relief,” she said, noting that the bill balances savings and essential services without harming vulnerable populations.

Other members acknowledged Musk’s contributions to DOGE but questioned his understanding of congressional procedure. “It wouldn’t be the first time he didn’t grasp the process,” another GOP member said. “We have to incorporate DOGE cuts into the budget, not reconciliation.”

Fiscal Hawks Echo Musk’s Concerns Over National Debt

While some Republicans distanced themselves from Musk’s criticism, others aligned with his warnings. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., chair of the House Freedom Caucus, expressed concern about the bill’s limited spending cuts. “Debt markets remain concerned about U.S. total debt and annual deficits,” he said, voting “present” on the bill.

Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, the only Republican to vote against the bill, took to social media to echo Musk’s sentiment. “Don’t hope someone else will cut spending someday—know it has been done this Congress,” he posted. Davidson criticized the rushed floor vote and called for a more deliberate approach.

The White House pointed to senior advisor Stephen Miller’s statement clarifying that DOGE cuts relate to discretionary spending, which cannot be addressed through reconciliation. “The Big Beautiful Bill is not an annual budget bill and does not fund departments,” Miller explained. “It includes the largest welfare reform in American history.”

Musk, whose time as a Special Government Employee is concluding, announced Wednesday that he is stepping away from his federal role. Despite mixed reactions, his comments continue to shape the fiscal conversation as the bill heads to the Senate for further consideration.