House Democrats voiced their discontent on Thursday following the collapse of a bipartisan spending bill agreement brokered by House Speaker Mike Johnson. The Democrats criticized Republicans for walking away from the negotiated deal and accused them of being influenced by individuals like Elon Musk.
Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York referred to Elon Musk as 'President Musk' and expressed his disappointment in the Republicans for allowing Musk to disrupt the agreement. He emphasized the importance of negotiation and upholding the terms that were agreed upon for the benefit of the American people.
Rep. Jim McGovern from Massachusetts expressed the caucus's disappointment in Speaker Johnson, suggesting that Musk seemed to have a significant influence akin to a president, with Trump being likened to a vice president.
Rep. Greg Casar of Texas questioned the extent of Elon Musk's involvement, humorously suggesting that Musk might as well be considered a co-president. He quipped about Speaker Johnson potentially handing over the gavel to Musk if they prefer a billionaire to lead the country.
House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark of Massachusetts became emotional as she highlighted the impact of the prolonged negotiation and the altered debt ceiling agreement on her constituents. She stressed the urgent need for disaster aid and Small Business Administration loans that had not been replenished in the previous spending bill, leaving many individuals and businesses in a vulnerable position.
Clark emphasized that the chaos and dysfunction in the negotiation process have tangible consequences for hardworking people, labeling it as irresponsible and harmful. She underscored the importance of addressing the real-world impacts of political decisions on individuals and communities.
Elon Musk's team did not immediately respond to requests for comments regarding his role in the spending bill negotiations.
