Media Meltdown Over Elon Musk’s Role In Killing Government Funding Bill
The media establishment is in uproar over Elon Musk’s influence in derailing a massive government funding bill, which fell apart following Musk’s public calls for Republicans to reject it. Musk, along with Vivek Ramaswamy, drew attention to controversial provisions in the bill, prompting lawmakers to back away and leaving the government days away from a shutdown.
CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell opened Evening News by warning of dire consequences if the funding measure fails. “Millions of government workers and military members could be without paychecks days before the holidays,” she said, framing Musk’s role as a dangerous intervention in the legislative process.
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 would have allocated billions for disaster relief and farm subsidies but was criticized for additional spending measures. These included funding for a football stadium, pay increases for lawmakers, and protections for government entities involved in censoring dissenting voices. Critics argued these provisions prioritized special interests over taxpayers.
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 outlined the controversial details, highlighting concerns over wasteful spending. Meanwhile, ABC’s Mary Bruce amplified fears of a government shutdown, stating, “Federal workers and military personnel could head into the holidays without paychecks if no action is taken by Saturday.”
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, supported by President-elect Donald Trump, called for an immediate rejection of the bill. Within hours, its chances of passing evaporated, with Musk declaring the measure dead. Trump celebrated the outcome, framing it as a victory for taxpayers and a blow to government excess.
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 reaction from media outlets underscores their frustration with Musk’s growing political clout, particularly as he aligns with Trump’s incoming administration. The failure of the bill has heightened tensions in Washington, with the Biden administration scrambling to address the fallout.