Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has voiced her concerns about the influence Elon Musk holds over the ongoing government funding crisis on Capitol Hill.

In a post on X, Clinton accused the Republican Party of being guided by Musk, the world’s richest man, stating, “The Republican Party, taking orders from the world’s richest man, is on course to shut down the government over the holidays.

Stopping paychecks for our troops and nutrition benefits for low-income families just in time for Christmas.”

This sharp criticism came after House Democrats labelled some Republicans as ‘Extreme MAGA’ for their hardline stance in budget negotiations, which could potentially leave essential services unfunded.

The possibility of a government shutdown, set to take effect at midnight on Saturday, would mean thousands of federal employees, including military personnel, might not receive paychecks.

Additionally, millions of vulnerable families relying on programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) could face disruptions in their benefits just before the holidays.

Fox News reported that the core issue is a dispute over the spending deal initially brokered by House Speaker Mike Johnson and the Democrats.

Musk, known for his outspoken views on politics and social issues, rejected the original agreement, threatening to support primary challengers against any Republican who voted in favour of it.

In response, House Republicans proposed a revised spending package.