ISLAMABAD: Tensions between US President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk erupted publicly on Thursday, revealing a dramatic breakdown in their once-close relationship.
Trump expressed being “very disappointed” with Musk’s recent criticisms of his tax and spending legislation, while Musk fired back on social media, accusing Trump of “ingratitude” and claiming Trump would not have won the 2024 election without his support.
The dispute unfolded during a press briefing in the Oval Office, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz present but silent.
Trump criticized Musk for turning against him despite Musk’s prior knowledge of the bill’s details, calling it a sudden problem.
False, this bill was never shown to me even once and was passed in the dead of night so fast that almost no one in Congress could even read it! https://t.co/V4ztekqd4g
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025
Musk responded in real time on his X platform (formerly Twitter), denying Trump’s claims about being briefed in advance and highlighting his major financial contribution of nearly $300 million to Trump’s campaign.
Public Spat Impacts Business and Politics
Musk’s public denunciation sent Tesla’s shares tumbling by eight percent on Wall Street, signaling investor concern over the escalating feud.
Musk further fueled speculation about his political ambitions by posting a poll asking if it was time to form a new party representing the majority “in the middle.” His followers overwhelmingly agreed, suggesting potential shifts in the political landscape.
Whatever.
Keep the EV/solar incentive cuts in the bill, even though no oil & gas subsidies are touched (very unfair!!), but ditch the MOUNTAIN of DISGUSTING PORK in the bill.
In the entire history of civilization, there has never been legislation that both big and beautiful.…
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025
Meanwhile, Trump took to Truth Social, accusing Musk of going “crazy” after losing electric vehicle subsidies he had long been aware would be cut.
Trump also suggested terminating Musk’s government contracts could save billions in the budget, a move Musk called an “obvious lie.”
From Farewell to Fallout
The explosive breakup followed Musk’s recent farewell ceremony in the Oval Office after stepping down from his government role.
Trump recalled Musk arriving with a black eye from an incident with his son and declining makeup, portraying Musk as authentic despite growing tensions.
The public airing of grievances between one of the world’s most powerful men and the richest entrepreneur highlights the fragile nature of their alliance and raises questions about future cooperation.
