Elon Musk is under fire from mainstream media outlets for helping to derail a massive government spending proposal. Musk, along with Vivek Ramaswamy, publicly criticized the plan, urging Republican lawmakers to reject it over what they described as wasteful and controversial provisions.
During CBS’s Evening News, anchor Norah O’Donnell described the situation as dire, citing the potential for a government shutdown. “America is two days away from a government shutdown unless Congress acts soon,” she said, framing Musk’s involvement as a major disruption to the legislative process.
How can this be called a “continuing resolution” if it includes a 40% pay increase for Congress? https://t.co/qFFUP0eUOH
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 18, 2024
The proposal included billions in disaster relief and aid for farmers but faced backlash for unrelated items. Critics highlighted funding for a stadium, congressional pay raises, and protections for specific government programs as unnecessary additions to the bill.
This is insane and has nothing to do with a “continuing resolution”! https://t.co/VKFnDiysF8
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 18, 2024
Nikole Killion of CBS provided details on the contentious provisions, while ABC’s Mary Bruce emphasized the potential impacts of a shutdown on federal workers and military members. “Millions could face furloughs or unpaid work during the holidays,” Bruce said, amplifying concerns over the bill’s failure.
BREAKING: Fox News reports that @ElonMusk’s posts vowing to fund primary challenges against Republicans who support the Continuing Resolution have effectively killed the bill.
— 🇺🇸 Pismo 🇺🇸 (@Pismo_B) December 18, 2024
Musk’s calls to reject the measure were echoed by President-elect Donald Trump, who celebrated its defeat as a win for taxpayers. Within hours of Musk’s public statements, the bill collapsed, leaving Democratic leaders scrambling for alternatives.
BREAKING: Elon Musk calls for an immediate primary challenge for any Republican that votes for the 1,547 page Continuing Resolution Spending Bill.
“Any member of the House or Senate who votes for this outrageous spending bill deserves to be voted out in 2 years!” pic.twitter.com/qBRTEjzKxH
— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) December 18, 2024
The media’s reaction underscores growing unease with Musk’s influence in Washington, particularly as he aligns with Trump’s incoming administration.