Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Tesla CEO Elon Musk are locked in a bitter fight. Walz slammed Musk, calling him a “dipshit” and a “South African nepo baby.” He criticized rich people who avoid taxes. Musk fired back, pointing out he paid over $11 billion in taxes in 2021. Their battle, tied to the 2024 election, highlights America’s deep political split.
How the Conflict Began
Musk heads Tesla and SpaceX. Walz governs Minnesota and ran as the Democratic VP candidate in 2024. The two started sparring during the election, and it’s still going strong in 2025. They trade personal attacks and argue over policy.
Walz Throws Punches
Walz doesn’t hold back. At a rally in Madison, Wisconsin, on October 22, 2024, he accused Musk of pumping millions into Trump’s campaign and laughed at his rally antics. On March 19, 2025, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, he branded Musk a “South African nepo baby.” On April 9, 2025, Walz said,
“Once you become successful, don’t be a greedy bastard and not pay your taxes. I don’t think we should be the party that demonizes someone because they can afford something, they worked hard & got something. We should demonize people like Elon Musk. That’s different.”
Tim Walz on Elon Musk: "Once you become successful, don't be a greedy bastard and not pay your taxes. I don't think we should be the party that demonizes someone because they can afford something—they worked hard & got something. We should demonize people like Elon Musk. That's… pic.twitter.com/uq5aV2XAxT
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) April 9, 2025
Musk Responds with Tax Facts
Musk countered with hard numbers. In 2021, his tax bill hit over $11 billion, roughly 10% of his wealth gain from $153.5 billion to $239.5 billion. Some estimates push it near $12 billion with state taxes included. He labeled Walz a “liar” for doubting his contribution.
The Political Divide
Musk backs Trump, showing up at rallies and funding conservative causes through America PAC. Walz and Democrats claim Musk is out of touch with regular people. People who support Musk say his taxes and companies prove he’s valuable. They point to his $11 billion tax payment in 2021 and the jobs Tesla and SpaceX create.
Musk doesn’t let attacks slide. When Walz took a swipe at Tesla’s stock falling in March 2025, Musk called him a “creep.” He throws out facts and follows up with biting jabs.
Walz’s style of insult grabs notice. He used “South African nepo baby” for Musk, a move that feels like Trump’s way of talking.
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