Elon Musk, DOGE hit House lawmakers’ war of words on government shutdown
House Republicans are accusing Democrats of waging their opposition campaign against the GOP’s government funding plan over their fury at Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) efforts. This accusation comes amid a heated debate over the proposed continuing resolution (CR) that would freeze government funding at FY 2024 levels through the beginning of FY 2026.
According to Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., Democrats are driven by their hatred for Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump rather than a genuine concern for the country. Mace told Fox News Digital, “They hate Elon Musk and Donald Trump more than they love their country. They’re just losing their f—— minds.” She expressed optimism that some Democratic lawmakers would still vote for the legislation but criticized their opposition as purely political games.
First-term Rep. Jeff Crank, R-Colo., echoed Mace’s sentiments, suggesting that Democrats’ opposition is fueled by their disdain for Trump and Musk. He stated, “It’s either [President Donald Trump] or Elon Musk or a combination thereof, right?” Crank highlighted the recent political losses suffered by Democrats and urged them to prioritize keeping the government open.
While Democrats have criticized Musk and his DOGE work, accusing him of damaging the government and benefiting from undue influence, Republicans have defended his efforts as necessary. Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., emphasized that his legislative decisions are not influenced by Musk and focused on his constituents’ needs. However, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., criticized House Republicans for proposing a CR instead of addressing fresh FY 2025 appropriations bills.
House Democrats have utilized Musk in their critiques of the funding bill, arguing that it prioritizes tax breaks for Trump’s associates over crucial funding for veterans’ healthcare and research. House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., condemned the bill as unacceptable, while Rep. Beyer, D-Va., accused Trump and Musk of causing job losses and economic chaos.
The proposed CR includes additional funding for defense but cuts nondefense funding by approximately $13 billion. House GOP leadership aides have highlighted added funding for veterans’ healthcare, contradicting Democrats’ messaging. Despite traditionally voting to avert government shutdowns, Democratic lawmakers are likely to oppose the bill, leaving House Republicans to carry the burden of passing it.
As the debate continues, several Republicans remain undecided on how they will vote, with President Trump reaching out to GOP lawmakers who are on the fence. The outcome of the vote remains uncertain, but the clash over government funding and the influence of figures like Musk and Trump underscores the deep political divisions in Congress.
