U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Elon Musk after the billionaire announced the establishment of a new political party, "America Party," aimed at challenging the two-party system in the U.S. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he was "very sad to see Elon Musk completely 'go off the rails,' essentially becoming a TRAIN WRECK over the past five weeks."
Trump argued that third parties "have never succeeded in the U.S." and claimed that the system is not designed to support them. His comments came just hours after Musk announced the launch of his party on X, stating that he would proceed if Congress approves Trump's controversial tax and spending bill, which was passed on Thursday.
Musk's new party has raised concerns among Trump supporters that this party could split the Republican vote in the upcoming midterm elections, risking the loss of this party's fragile majority in Congress.
The U.S. electoral system, operating on the principle of majority vote, allows candidates to win with the highest number of votes even if they do not achieve an absolute majority, increasing the likelihood of third-party sabotage.
Far-right influencer Laura Loomer, an ally of Trump, expressed concern on X that prominent Republicans like Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie might switch to Musk's America Party.
While third parties sometimes win state and local offices, no party has won the presidency since the Republican Party emerged in the 19th century. However, Musk's financial influence and large base could give the America Party a unique position in the 2026 election if he follows through on his plans.
The rift between Trump and Musk has intensified after Musk criticized the One Big Beautiful Bill backed by the Republican Party, which is expected to add another $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. Musk described this bill as "a disgusting abomination" and threatened to oppose lawmakers who support it, stating that "they will lose the primary elections next year if that is the last thing I do on this Earth."
Previously, Musk served in a special government role in the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, a nod to Dogecoin, where he focused on cutting government spending. Musk has argued that this bill undermines efforts to cut wasteful spending and has committed that his new party will target key House and Senate races.
In a post on X, Musk revealed a "laser-focused" plan on two to three Senate seats and eight to ten House districts to serve as the decisive voice on important legislation, ensuring that the laws reflect the "true will of the people."
