
Elon Musk has sparked outrage among legacy media outlets for his role in halting a massive government funding measure. The bill, which faced mounting criticism for its contentious provisions, was ultimately derailed after Musk and allies like Vivek Ramaswamy urged Republican lawmakers to reject it.
CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell described the situation as a looming crisis during Evening News, warning of an impending government shutdown. “America is two days away from a government shutdown unless Congress acts soon,” she said, pointing to Musk’s influence as a significant factor in the bill’s failure.
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 measure included over $100 billion for disaster relief and billions in aid for farmers but was criticized for unrelated expenditures. These included funding for a stadium, pay raises for lawmakers, and protections for specific government programs. Critics highlighted these items as evidence of wasteful spending.
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 detailed the controversial provisions, while ABC’s Mary Bruce warned of holiday disruptions for federal employees and military members. “If Congress doesn’t act, millions could face furloughs or unpaid work,” Bruce said.
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’s opposition, amplified by President-elect Donald Trump, proved decisive in halting the bill’s progress. Musk publicly called for its defeat, and within hours, Republican lawmakers withdrew support. Trump later celebrated its failure as a win for fiscal responsibility and taxpayer interests.
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 backlash reflects growing frustration with Musk’s influence and his alignment with Trump’s administration. The collapse of the funding measure has created uncertainty in Washington just weeks before Trump’s inauguration.