
Elon Musk’s involvement in blocking a major government funding proposal has sparked intense backlash from mainstream media outlets. Musk, joined by Vivek Ramaswamy, led a public campaign against the bill, urging Republican lawmakers to reject it over concerns about its controversial spending priorities.
During CBS’s Evening News, anchor Norah O’Donnell highlighted the consequences of the measure’s collapse, warning of a potential government shutdown. “Millions of federal employees and military members could face unpaid work just before the holidays,” she said, while attributing the bill’s failure in part to Musk’s influence.
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 substantial funding for disaster relief and agricultural aid but was criticized for provisions that opponents described as unnecessary. Among the disputed items were funding for a football stadium, increased pay for lawmakers, and protections for controversial government programs.
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 pointed out these add-ons, describing them as central to the bill’s rejection. ABC’s Mary Bruce echoed warnings of potential shutdown impacts, particularly for workers such as TSA agents and air traffic controllers during the holiday travel season.
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, backed by President-elect Donald Trump, played a pivotal role in rallying opposition to the measure. His public calls for Republican lawmakers to vote against it quickly gained traction, and the bill failed to gain enough support. Trump later praised the outcome as a taxpayer victory and a rejection of government overreach.
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 anger reflects unease with Musk’s growing political influence as Trump prepares to assume office. The bill’s collapse underscores the challenges facing Washington as the Biden administration nears its final days.