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Good morning and welcome to Breaking Points. We have good news: a special offer for the premium edition of Breaking Points for a month using promo code BP free. Monthly subscriptions are back, allowing easier access to the show. Today's major topics include Elon Musk's criticism of the administration and the controversial spending bill, dubbed the "big beautiful bill" (BBB). Musk condemned the bill as a "disgusting abomination," claiming it would increase the budget deficit by $2.5 trillion. He aligns with Republicans like Rand Paul, who argue the bill doesn't cut enough spending and raises the debt ceiling irresponsibly. The discussion highlights the tension within the Republican Party, where moderates and fiscal hawks disagree on spending cuts. Musk's recent criticisms reflect a shift in his stance, as he previously avoided significant political commentary. The urgency for the Trump administration to unify factions around the bill is emphasized, with a deadline approaching for its passage.

In today's show, Krystal and Saagar discuss significant political developments, including a potential government shutdown and Elon Musk's influence on Republican lawmakers. Jeff Stein from the Washington Post joins to analyze the situation, highlighting Musk's criticism of a bipartisan continuing resolution (CR) that includes disaster relief and healthcare provisions. Musk's threats to primary dissenting Republicans have complicated the political landscape, with Trump also weighing in on the debt ceiling and urging Republicans to resist a "clean" CR. The conversation touches on the power dynamics between Trump and Musk, suggesting that Musk is emerging as a significant independent power center within the GOP, impacting legislative negotiations and party direction.

Democrats aim to create a divide between Elon Musk and Donald Trump, dubbing Musk "President Musk." They criticize Musk's influence on Republican decisions, particularly regarding the debt ceiling. Trump appears to align with Musk's stance but risks political fallout if Musk becomes problematic. A Quinnipiac poll shows 53% disapprove of Musk's role in the Trump administration. The potential government shutdown could exacerbate economic issues, affecting public sentiment. Democrats are unlikely to assist Republicans in raising the debt ceiling unless it’s permanently eliminated. The situation is precarious, with Trump needing to navigate the fallout while managing his ego and political interests.

Chris Murphy suggested that the situation in Gaza is a distraction from other pressing issues. President Trump praised Elon Musk for uncovering fraud in USAID, criticizing government spending practices. Democrats are reacting strongly, proposing legislation to prevent conflicts of interest in Treasury Department access. They accuse Musk's team of attempting to manipulate government payments, raising concerns about young coders having access to critical financial systems. A senior Treasury official resigned over Musk's demands for access, which could jeopardize the stability of the financial system. The Empowerment Control Act is at the center of the debate, with Republicans challenging its constitutionality. Musk's team is reportedly trying to bypass established protocols, potentially leading to payment disruptions. Meanwhile, there are reports of threats against Musk's employees, and the Department of Labor is next in Musk's sights, prompting protests against the involvement of his team in government operations.

Congressman Rana discussed a recent Twitter exchange with Elon Musk regarding a vote to subpoena Musk for testimony about his actions, which Rana believes are unconstitutional. He clarified that he supports Musk's transparency and accountability. Rana emphasized the need for Congress to assert its authority, particularly concerning the debt ceiling, and criticized Musk's influence over government spending decisions. He expressed concern about Musk's power as a private citizen impacting public policy and the necessity for more diverse social media platforms to counterbalance Musk's influence. Rana noted that constituents are frustrated with Democratic leadership's response to Musk and Trump, calling for a clearer plan to assert congressional power. He highlighted the importance of standing up to Musk and Trump, suggesting that Democrats need to unify and take a tougher stance. Rana also pointed out that many Republicans fear losing their positions if they oppose Trump, which complicates bipartisan efforts to uphold congressional authority. Overall, he stressed the urgency of addressing what he sees as a constitutional crisis stemming from Musk's actions.

A mutiny is brewing on Capitol Hill over Trump's budget bill, with House conservatives opposing a Senate-approved blueprint. They aim to pass it before a two-week recess, but many Republicans remain undecided. Trump is pressuring for quick passage to stabilize markets, but some, like Andy Harris, distrust his promises on tax rates and spending cuts. The Freedom Caucus demands codified spending cuts, fearing a recession may hinder their goals.

The House passed a continuing resolution spending bill by 217 to 213, with Thomas Massie voting no. President Trump criticized Massie for not supporting the bill, emphasizing the need for Republicans to unite to keep the government funded. The Senate now faces a deadline to avert a shutdown, with Democrats holding significant leverage. JD Vance noted that Republicans would likely be blamed if a shutdown occurs. The dynamics have shifted, with Democrats pressured by their base to fight against cuts to federal programs. The influence of Trump and Elon Musk is reshaping Republican politics, diminishing the Tea Party's rebellion.

Republicans are set to vote on a continuing resolution to keep the government open, with President Trump urging for more time to address spending concerns. Some Republicans, like Thomas Massie, advocate for fiscal austerity and have expressed principled opposition to current spending levels. Trump has threatened Massie with a primary challenge, criticizing him for his consistent no votes. Despite past primary challenges, Massie has maintained support in his district. The proposed legislation slightly decreases overall spending but increases military funding and provides additional resources for ICE and WIC. Democrats are expected to vote against the resolution, emphasizing that Republicans control the government and should take responsibility for passing it. The situation raises concerns about a potential government shutdown.

Megyn Kelly opens the show discussing a feud between President Trump and Elon Musk regarding the "Big Beautiful Bill," which appears to have enough support to pass in the Senate. Key Republican senators, including Rand Paul and Tom Tillis, are not voting for it, but JD Vance is expected to cast the tie-breaking vote. The bill is crucial for Trump's agenda, and negotiations are ongoing to secure votes from senators like Lisa Murkowski. In legal news, the jury in the Shawn Diddy Combs trial is deliberating, having sent multiple notes to the judge, indicating potential issues in reaching a verdict. Meanwhile, a shocking development arises in the quadruple murder case against Brian Coberger, who has accepted a plea deal that blindsided the victims' families, who had hoped for a trial and the death penalty. Coberger will serve four consecutive life sentences without parole, and the families express disappointment over not being consulted about the plea deal. The brutality of the crime is highlighted, with journalist Howard Bloom describing the horrific scene where four college students were murdered in Idaho. The victims were Madison Mogan, Kaylee Goncalves, Zana Kernodal, and Ethan Chapin. The plea deal means many questions about the motive may never be answered, leaving families frustrated. Kelly discusses the implications of the plea deal with legal experts Arthur Idala and Matt Murphy, who emphasize the disconnect between the prosecution and the victims' families. They express concern over the lack of communication and the emotional toll on the families, particularly the Goncalves family, who wanted the death penalty. The conversation shifts to the ongoing trial of Sean Combs, where jurors are grappling with complex issues. The hosts speculate on the jurors' deliberations and the potential outcomes of the trial. In political news, the "Big Beautiful Bill" has passed in the Senate, with Trump celebrating its progress. The bill aims to make tax cuts permanent and includes controversial provisions regarding Medicaid. Critics argue that the bill will negatively impact healthcare for vulnerable populations, while supporters claim it addresses waste and fraud. Elon Musk expresses frustration over the bill, threatening to form a new political party and primary Republicans who support it. Kelly and her guests discuss the implications of Musk's comments and the political dynamics surrounding the bill. The show concludes with a humorous segment about Florida's new immigration detention facility, dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," which aims to deter illegal immigration. The hosts discuss the facility's features and the broader implications of immigration policy in the U.S.