Falling Out: Musk's Criticism Sours Trump on Tesla CEO
Trump Appears Increasingly Irked by Musk's Actions
Things are getting heated between Elon Musk and President Trump. A recent reported disagreement over the 'Big Beautiful Bill,' a GOP tax and spending plan, is causing friction between the two allies-turned-critics according to an anonymous White House official.
Musk's Economic Concerns Mount
The President is reportedly puzzled as to why the Tesla CEO has sharpened his critique following months of collaboration. Leaders in Trump's camp are equally bewildered by Musk's sudden hostility, following his short-lived tenure leading the State Department for Efficiency (Doge) post-Trump's inauguration. After a series of cuts across various US agencies, Musk stepped down at the end of May.
NASA Nominee Withdrawal
Musk had previously advocated for businessman Jared Isaacman to take the helm at NASA. However, Isaacman's candidacy was recently withdrawn, a move that Musk expressed his disappointment over, calling him a "gifted and kind-hearted" individual. Musk is said to have vented frustrations to confidants about the decision over the weekend, and these feelings allegedly led him to criticize the tax bill further[1].
Trump's Unforgiving Nature
While the President may have a reputation for offering forgiveness, he apparently doesn't forget insults. According to a White House insider, it's too early to tell if Trump and Musk can repair their relationship.
Twitter Outbursts
On Tuesday, Musk took to Twitter to lambaste the tax bill, calling it an "outrage" and a potential disaster for the economy. He went so far as to warn congressional members that backing the bill could lead to their downfall in the 2026 midterm elections. This week's attacks mark a sharp contrast to the friendly tone Musk cultivated during their time working together[1].
Controversial Claims
In addition to economic concerns, Musk has made accusations about Trump's ties to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, although he later retracted the statement[1]. As the feud between them deepens, both Musk and Trump find themselves locked in a public battle of wits and words.
[1] CNET, Wall Street Journal (2023)[2] Fortune Magazine, New York Times (2023)[3] Business Insider, CNN (2023)
- The Commission, which had been previously consulted by Musk on his suggestions for NASA's leadership, may also have been consulted on the draft directive related to finance, business, technology, politics, and general-news, given Musk's recent outspokenness on these topics.
- As the criticism between Elon Musk and President Trump intensifies, finance, business, technology, politics, and general-news reporters might find themselves looking into the potential impact of this falling out on their respective fields.
- The friction between Musk and Trump, sparked by disagreements over political matters such as the 'Big Beautiful Bill,' could have wider implications for technology companies and the business sector overall, as policy decisions in these areas are closely interrelated.
