US President Donald Trump has criticized Elon Musk over Musk’s recent announcement about starting a new political party. Trump, speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One, called the idea “ridiculous,” stating that America has always had a two-party system. He believes a third party would only add to the confusion.
Musk, after hinting at this plan for weeks, shared on X that he created the “America Party.” He aims to challenge what he calls the Republican and Democratic “Uniparty.” This move marks a significant shift in his political stance, considering Musk and Trump were once close allies.
In his previous role, Musk led the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), which focused on reducing federal spending. He has been vocal against government policies that contribute to the rising national debt.
Musk’s new party may support a presidential candidate in the future, but for now, he’s concentrating on the House and Senate races. Meanwhile, Trump expressed disappointment on Truth Social, claiming Musk has gone “off the rails” recently. He criticized Musk’s proposal for an “Electric Vehicle (EV) Mandate,” arguing it would have pressured everyone to buy electric cars quickly.
In July, Trump signed a tax and spending bill that eliminated tax breaks for electric vehicles. He explained that this decision was meant to give people the freedom to choose their vehicles—be it gasoline-powered or hybrids—without a forced mandate.
The legislation also included increased funding for border security, defense, and energy production. However, it faced backlash due to cuts in healthcare and food support programs, sparking debates around fiscal responsibility and social safety nets.
This discussion reflects a broader trend of shifting political alliances in today’s landscape. As Musk openly distances himself from traditional party lines, many are watching to see how this new party will influence upcoming elections. Interestingly, according to a recent Pew Research study, nearly 40% of Americans believe a third major party is needed to effectively represent their views.
Supporters and critics alike are expressing their views on social media, indicating a strong interest in this unexpected political shift. As these events unfold, it remains to be seen how they will impact both individuals and the political landscape as a whole.
For further details on the impact of political parties, you can check out this Pew Research study.