Overview
- Elon Musk dismissed Bill Gates' claim that DOGE’s USAID budget cuts could lead to millions of child deaths, calling Gates a 'huge liar' and demanding proof.
- Musk argued that useful USAID functions were transferred to the State Department, not eliminated, and challenged critics to present evidence of harm caused by the cuts.
- The feud intensified after Musk referenced Gates’ past association with Jeffrey Epstein, questioning Gates’ credibility on matters of child welfare.
- Gates had criticized Musk's cuts, citing examples like halted HIV-prevention programs in Mozambique and warning of dire global health consequences.
- The public clash highlights broader tensions over philanthropy, government efficiency, and accountability, with Musk defending DOGE's efforts to curb federal spending despite criticism of its impact.