In a surprise move, tech billionaire Elon Musk has announced the launch of a third U.S. political party, calling it the America Party, a move that sparked immediate backlash from former ally Donald Trump. It could upend political loyalties ahead of the 2026 midterms, especially among conservative-leaning voters.
Elon Musk Announces New Political Party
| Takeaway | Stat |
|---|---|
| Broad support for a third party | 65% to 80% in X (Twitter) poll |
| Musk’s trigger for leaving Trump | $3.3 trillion spending bill |
| Trump’s reaction | Called Musk a “TRAIN WRECK” |
Musk’s launch of the America Party marks a bold break from Donald Trump and the traditional two-party stronghold. While history isn’t on his side, Musk is betting that Americans are fed up enough with the status quo to try something different. The next two years will test whether this is a fleeting rebellion or the start of a lasting political shift.
A Billionaire Breaks Rank
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Musk declared the formation of the America Party, citing disillusionment with what he calls the “uniparty” culture in Washington. The final straw? A sweeping $3.3 trillion omnibus spending bill dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” championed by Trump and recently passed by Congress.
“This bill is insane. It’s financial suicide,” Musk wrote. “The America Party will primary every politician who voted for it.” Musk, who supported Trump in the 2024 election and even advised his campaign, is now framing himself as a fiscal hawk on a mission to end wasteful government spending.
Trump Claps Back
It didn’t take long for Trump to fire back. Speaking to reporters at a Florida airport and later on Truth Social, Trump slammed Musk’s new political ambitions. “It’s ridiculous. Third parties never work in America. The system wasn’t built for it,” Trump said.
He didn’t stop there. In a series of scathing posts, Trump accused Musk of hypocrisy, given Tesla’s past reliance on federal tax breaks and contracts. One particularly sharp line read: “Elon has gone off the rails. A total TRAIN WRECK.”
Trump even joked about the possibility of revoking Musk’s U.S. citizenship and “sending him back to South Africa.”
The America Party’s Chances
The odds are stacked against any third party. From Ross Perot in 1992 to Gary Johnson in 2016, American political history is littered with failed attempts. But Musk brings two assets most third-party hopefuls lack: name recognition and almost unlimited cash.
According to a Washington Post analysis, Musk could realistically self-fund a $500 million campaign effort through 2026. Even so, ballot access laws are a huge hurdle. Musk will need to gather hundreds of thousands of signatures across multiple states to get America Party candidates on the ballot.
“Ballot access is a logistical nightmare,” says Dr. Rachel Blum, a political science professor at the University of Oklahoma. “But if anyone can cut through red tape with lawyers and funding, it’s Musk.”
Silicon Valley Split
The Musk-Trump feud has rattled tech world loyalties. Some conservative-leaning venture capitalists, who previously donated to Trump-aligned PACs, are now signaling support for Musk’s fiscal crusade.
Others warn that Musk may alienate voters by mixing tech-world libertarianism with hardline anti-establishment rhetoric. The venture community remains divided, unsure whether this is a serious political move or another Musk moonshot.
What Comes Next?
For now, Musk appears focused on the 2026 midterms. He’s vowed to back primary challengers against any Republican or Democrat who supported the debt-raising bill. Meanwhile, Trump is doubling down on his base, warning that Musk’s party will “confuse voters and help the radical left.”
“If you’re not with us, you’re against America,” Trump said in a recent Truth Social post. It’s a high-stakes game of political chicken. Whether the America Party becomes a lasting force or fizzles out remains to be seen.
FAQs
What is the America Party?
A new political party launched by Elon Musk in July 2025 aimed at challenging bipartisan government spending and promoting fiscal restraint.
Will Musk run for office?
He hasn’t announced any plans to run himself but intends to fund and support like-minded candidates for the 2026 midterms.
Can a third party win in the U.S.?
Historically, third parties struggle due to structural barriers and voter loyalty. However, Musk’s popularity and financial power could shake things up.
How did Trump respond?
Trump called Musk’s move “ridiculous” and warned that it could harm the GOP and confuse voters, especially conservatives.
