Trump Slams Musk’s New Political Party as ‘Off the Rails’ Threat to GOP

U.S. President Donald Trump has strongly criticized Elon Musk following the billionaire’s announcement of the “America Party.” Trump expressed concern that the new political formation could divide the Republican base ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Trump Questions Musk’s Political Intentions

Trump posted a statement on Truth Social calling Musk a “train wreck” and questioned his judgment. “I am saddened to watch Elon Musk go completely ‘off the rails,’” Trump wrote on Sunday. The post came just hours after Musk publicly launched the “America Party” through his X account.

Trump added that third parties have historically failed in the U.S., saying, “The System seems not designed for them.” The statement reflects longstanding skepticism about third-party viability in a political system dominated by Democrats and Republicans.

Musk’s move is viewed as a direct response to Congress passing the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which he opposed. He had previously stated that he would form a party if the bill advanced through Congress.

Musk Confirms Formation of the “America Party”

Musk shared details about the party on X, saying he would form it to challenge both major parties. The announcement came shortly after the Republican-led bill passed, which he criticized for its large spending provisions.

By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party and you shall have it!

When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste & graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy.

Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 5, 2025

Multiple party filings referencing the “America Party,” “DOGE,” and “X” were made with the Federal Election Commission. Musk confirmed at least one of the filings was fake. Other filings are under review as the source and authenticity remain unclear.

Musk had previously served as a special employee at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a short-term federal role aimed at cutting spending. He now claims the bill undermines the work he did during that period.

GOP Allies Fear a Split Vote in Midterms

Some of Trump’s closest supporters expressed concern that Musk’s party could weaken the Republican vote. Far-right figure Laura Loomer said Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie could consider switching to Musk’s side.

Third parties hardly win big in the U.S electoral system. Nonetheless, it is possible that the American Party can impact a number of congressional contests by depriving the GOP of its support in strategically important areas. It has raised the fear of the loss of the current tight majority that the party enjoys in the Congress.

The U.S. election system is first-past-the-post. This structure tends to discourage third-party efforts since a candidate does not need to win a majority, only the most votes.

Musk Plans Targeted Congressional Strategy

Musk stated that his focus would be on a limited number of races. “One way to execute on this would be to laser-focus on just 2 or 3 Senate seats and 8 to 10 House districts,” he posted on X.

One way to execute on this would be to laser-focus on just 2 or 3 Senate seats and 8 to 10 House districts.

Given the razor-thin legislative margins, that would be enough to serve as the deciding vote on contentious laws, ensuring that they serve the true will of the people.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 4, 2025

He believes these seats could hold the balance of power in the next Congress. “That would be enough to serve as the deciding vote on contentious laws,” Musk added.

He has also said that his goal is to ensure that future legislation “serves the true will of the people.” However, no formal platform or candidate list has been released for the American Party as of now.

Tensions Between Trump and Musk Continue to Rise

The conflict between Trump and Musk began at the start of the year but has intensified in the last couple of weeks. Musk’s attack on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and his move to form a new party have increased the gap.

The two are influential in the Republican base. In case Musk pursues his political intentions, the upcoming election period may cause challenges to the leaders of the GOP on a whole new level.