House Democrats criticized Musk’s involvement in the process, which they said is an unelected billionaire.
Musk, whom Trump has tasked with cutting government spending in his incoming administration, lobbied hard against an earlier version of the bill.
During the debate, Republicans said they were looking forward to a “new era” when Trump takes office on Jan. 20 and Republicans control both houses of Congress. The Senate currently remains in Democratic control.
The budget controversy has left Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson bruised by criticism from members of his own party for his handling of the process.
“We’re grateful that everyone came together to do the right thing, and by doing this now as the last thing of the year, we’re set for a big and important fresh start in January,” Johnson told reporters after Friday’s vote. .
He also said he spoke frequently with Trump and Musk during the negotiations.
Johnson’s remarks came shortly after Musk praised the Louisiana congressman’s work on the budget in a post on X, the social media platform he owns.
“The speaker did a good job, given the circumstances,” he wrote. “It went from a bill that weighed pounds to a bill that weighed ounces.”
The dramatic budget fight served as a preview of the intense legislative battles that could be in store.
