TOPSHOT - US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk (R) speak before departing the White House on his way to his South Florida home in Mar-a-Lago in Florida on March 14, 2025. Trump is spending the weekend at his Florida Mar-a-Lago resort. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP) (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images)
The relationship between former President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, culminating in a public feud that has drawn widespread attention.
Policy Disagreements: Tensions escalated when Musk criticized Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping tax and spending package that passed the House in early June. Musk labeled it a “disgusting abomination,” citing concerns over its projected $2.4 trillion addition to the national debt and cuts to electric vehicle subsidies, which directly impacted Tesla.
Public Fallout: In response, Trump declared the end of their relationship, warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he supports Democratic candidates. Trump also accused Musk of being disrespectful to the presidency and suggested that Musk’s social media posts, including a deleted tweet linking Trump to Jeffrey Epstein, were unfounded.
Political Maneuvering: Musk, who had previously been a significant donor to Trump’s 2024 campaign through the America PAC, has hinted at supporting alternative political figures. This shift has caused ripples within the Republican Party, with some members expressing concern over Musk’s influence.
Public Statements: Despite the fallout, Trump has stated he wishes Musk and Tesla well but has no intention of mending ties. He also indicated that he would not revoke a symbolic gift—a key—he had once given to Musk.
