Trump-Musk Feud Explodes in Public View

A dramatic rift between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk erupted into a public spectacle this week, as the two former allies traded threats and insults across social media platforms following disagreements over Trump’s massive domestic policy bill.

The explosive confrontation began when Musk criticized what Trump calls his “big, beautiful bill” as a “disgusting abomination,” eventually escalating to Musk suggesting the president should be impeached while Trump threatened to terminate government contracts with Musk’s companies.

Top Lists & Life Hacks You’ll Wish You Saw Sooner

From Bromance to Breakdown

The relationship between Trump and Musk appeared unshakeable just last week when both men stood together in the Oval Office, exchanging praise and promising continued collaboration. Musk had spent nearly $200 million to help elect Trump to a second term and was rewarded with leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

However, tensions began escalating Tuesday when Musk publicly opposed Trump’s sweeping tax and spending legislation, according to Reuters. The bill, estimated to add $2.4 trillion to the deficit over the next decade, includes tax cuts and increased military spending while cutting programs like Medicaid and SNAP.

Social Media War Erupts

The dispute quickly moved beyond policy disagreements to personal attacks. Trump posted on Truth Social that “the easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts.” Musk responded by polling his 220 million X followers about creating a new political party and suggesting Trump should be impeached.

The war of words reached a new low when Musk claimed without evidence that Trump appears in Jeffrey Epstein files, prompting Trump to call his former ally ungrateful. According to CNN, Trump later said he had “no plans” to speak with Musk and wasn’t “even thinking about him.”

Market Impact and Political Fallout

The public feud sent shockwaves through financial markets, with Tesla shares plummeting 14.3% and losing approximately $150 billion in market value. Wall Street traders dumped shares as uncertainty grew about the future of Musk’s government contracts, which include critical SpaceX missions supporting the International Space Station.

Republican lawmakers expressed concern about the potential impact on party unity ahead of midterm elections. House Speaker Mike Johnson urged the two men to “reconcile,” while Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas told Musk to “stop” his attacks on Trump, calling them “irresponsible.”

Government Contracts Under Review

Trump confirmed aboard Air Force One that his administration would review Musk’s extensive federal contracts, stating “it’s a lot of money” and “a lot of subsidy.” The contracts include billions in SpaceX deals for NASA missions and military launches, making Musk’s companies heavily dependent on government funding.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that any disruption to SpaceX operations could affect national security capabilities, according to ABC News. Musk initially threatened to shut down the Dragon spacecraft program but later reversed course, recognizing its critical role in supporting the International Space Station.

Future Uncertain

The breakdown represents the first major rift Trump has experienced with a top adviser since taking office for his second term. Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon suggested Musk had “crossed the Rubicon” by calling for impeachment, making reconciliation unlikely.

Both men attempted to cool tensions Friday evening, with Musk posting well-wishes for Trump on X. However, sources close to the White House indicate multiple attempts to reach Musk’s representatives have gone unanswered, suggesting the relationship may be irreparably damaged.

Trending Tips & Lists You’ll Kick Yourself for Missing