The Tensions Escalate Between Trump and Musk
The recent fallout between former President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk has taken center stage as both parties exchange barbs over social media. Their once strong alliance appears to be crumbling under the weight of political disagreement and public outbursts.
President Trump meets in the Oval Office on June 5. Michael Kappeler/Pool/AFP via Getty Images
The discord became public on Thursday with Musk criticizing a Republican mega-bill closely tied to Trump’s domestic policy priorities. Musk, who has been vocal against the legislation, claimed that Trump “would have lost the election” without his backing and referred to him as ungrateful. Read the tweet here.
Trump retaliated, suggesting that a simple way to cut government spending would be to “terminate Elon’s governmental subsidies and contracts.” See Trump’s post here.
This public spat has severely tested their political partnership, with Musk, who invested nearly $300 million to support Trump, hinting at the formation of a new political party. Musk’s statement here.
The tension arose after Trump’s comments in the Oval Office regarding Musk’s criticism of the tax and spending package. Trump expressed surprise at Musk’s harsh remarks about the bill, which he believes Musk once supported.
“Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we will anymore,” Trump admitted to reporters.
Trump further stated, “He’s worn that hat, ‘Trump was right about everything’ — and I am right about the great big, beautiful, bill.” He accused Musk of understanding the bill’s workings better than most, adding that Musk “never had a problem until right after he left.” Musk countered, claiming he was never shown the bill.
Musk, who once led Trump’s government-reduction efforts, described the legislation as “pork-filled” and a “disgusting abomination.” He tweeted, “In the entire history of civilization, there has never been legislation that both big and beautiful,” advocating for “slim and beautiful” bills.
Trump speculated that Musk’s discontent stemmed from proposed cuts to electric vehicle subsidies, which would impact Tesla, and the withdrawal of Trump’s NASA nominee, Jared Isaacman, a Musk ally.
Trump remarked on Musk’s demeanor upon leaving the Oval Office, noting his happiness despite any personal grievances. “You saw a man who was very happy when he stood behind the Oval desk,” Trump said, offering a glimpse into their previous camaraderie.
Reflecting on the situation, Trump suggested that Musk, like other former advisers, missed the “glamor” of White House politics, which might explain his recent hostility.
In a later post on his Truth Social platform, Trump intensified his critique of Musk, saying, “Elon was ‘wearing thin,’ I asked him to leave, I took away his EV mandate … and he just went CRAZY.” Read more here.
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