A fiery debate erupted on CNN’s NewsNight Wednesday night as panelists clashed over the GOP’s failed spending bill, which was blocked by President-elect Donald Trump and his close ally Elon Musk. The confrontation showcased a divide over governance and Musk’s growing influence on Trump’s decisions.
Democratic strategist Maria Cardona launched the first volley, criticizing the Republican Party’s inability to govern. “Republicans showed they have no ability to govern,” Cardona argued, referring to House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) proposed temporary spending bill. The bill, intended to fund the federal government through mid-March, was abruptly rejected by the incoming administration.
Cardona didn’t stop there, doubling down with a sharp assessment: Republicans “have not even an interest in governing.” Her remarks immediately ignited a heated exchange, with Republican panelists leaping to the GOP’s defense.
Former congressional candidate Gail Huff Brown (R-NH) fired back, challenging the merit of the bill itself. “Would you rather have a bad bill?” she asked. Washington Post columnist Catherine Rampell quickly entered the fray, pressing Brown for specifics: “What’s bad about this bill?”
Cardona, visibly frustrated and tapping her finger emphatically on the table, argued in favor of the bill, highlighting its bipartisan support. “I’d rather lawmakers pass the bill as is,” she maintained.
The debate escalated further when Musk’s role in Trump’s decision-making came under scrutiny. Arthur Aidala, a veteran New York trial attorney, defended Trump’s reliance on Musk, suggesting the billionaire’s insights were sound.
Rampell, however, let out an audible sigh. “Elon Musk bought Twitter and basically set $44 billion on fire,” Rampell quipped, sparking more tension. Aidala quickly countered, shouting, “Ok, but he got it to burn! You gotta give him credit for that.”
The conversation became even more animated when Rampell mentioned Tesla’s rising stock prices, claiming it was fueled by Musk’s close connection to Trump and the expectation of favorable policies for Tesla. “70 percent of electric cars are Tesla!” Aidala shot back, his voice rising.
Later, Cardona targeted Musk directly, accusing him of wanting to dismantle the very government that helped him launch his businesses. Aidala interrupted, leading to a chaotic back-and-forth. “You’re contradicting yourself though!” Aidala exclaimed, pushing Cardona to clarify.
“His knowledge only extends to federal contracts,” she retorted, cutting Aidala off. “That’s not government.” The intense, often chaotic exchange underscored the high stakes and sharp divisions as Trump prepares to take office, with Musk’s role in shaping policy at the center of the fiery debate.