Trump, Musk break up

WASHINGTON D.C. — The public feud between entrepreneur Elon Musk and President Donald Trump intensified in June 2025, sparked by Musk’s sharp criticism of a significant Republican spending bill and the subsequent removal of electric vehicle (EV) subsidies. The escalation follows Musk’s brief tenure in the Trump administration and his substantial financial backing during the 2024 presidential election.

The conflict erupted after Musk, who recently resigned from a role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) within Trump’s administration, condemned the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” This legislation, a cornerstone of Trump’s domestic agenda, was characterized by Musk as an “abomination” and a “disgusting monstrosity” due to its estimated $1.5 trillion increase to the national deficit. He specifically criticized the bill for cutting EV subsidies while maintaining fossil fuel subsidies.

Musk’s involvement with Trump began with significant support during the 2024 presidential election, where he contributed over $250 million to Trump’s campaign. He then joined the administration, aiming to reduce government spending and bureaucracy. His resignation came after approximately 129 days, reportedly receiving a symbolic golden key to the White House from Trump before their relationship deteriorated.

The public fallout commenced with Musk’s strong denunciation of the spending bill, accusing its proponents of being “wrong” to support it. Musk emphasized his priority of reducing the national debt over preserving EV subsidies, criticizing what he termed “wasteful spending.” In response, Trump publicly expressed feeling “let down” and “disappointed” by Musk’s critiques, accusing him of ingratitude despite his prior financial and political backing. Trump suggested Musk’s opposition was motivated by concerns over Tesla’s potential losses from the removal of EV tax incentives, a claim Musk denied, stating his acceptance of EV subsidy cuts was contingent on untouched oil and gas subsidies.

The dispute escalated further when Trump reportedly threatened to cut Musk’s government contracts and subsidies, which could impact Tesla and his other ventures. Musk retorted on social media, calling Trump “ungrateful” and asserting that without his support, Trump would have lost the 2024 election, leading to Democratic control of Congress. Musk’s social media responses were notably terse, including a direct “Whatever” in reply to Trump’s statements.

The highly public spat carries significant political implications. Musk’s financial and rhetorical influence could encourage dissent among congressional Republicans, potentially undermining Trump’s legislative agenda. Democrats have largely remained on the sidelines, viewing the division within Republican ranks as beneficial to their interests.

The ongoing feud highlights a clash between two prominent figures, characterized by accusations of ingratitude, disputes over fiscal policy, and escalating threats regarding government contracts and political influence. The outcome for both men’s political and business interests remains uncertain.  / FROM THE WIRES