Musk and Trump Feud Escalates, Threatens Billions
Tech Billionaire and Former President Engage in Public Rift
A bitter dispute between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has rapidly unfolded, jeopardizing lucrative government contracts and raising questions about the future of their once-close alliance. The conflict, largely playing out on social media, centers on a major spending bill currently before Congress.
Bill Sparks Public Clash
The fallout began after Musk publicly criticized Trump’s support for the proposed legislation, labeling it an “abomination” that could define a potential second term. This prompted a sharp rebuke from the former president, who accused Musk of being “disrespectful.”
Some members of Congress, opposed to the bill, even urged Musk—a significant Republican donor—to fund primary challenges against those who voted in favor of it. Trump warned of “very serious consequences”
if Musk were to do so, though he did not elaborate on what those might be.
“He’ll have to pay very serious consequences if he does that.”
—Donald Trump, Former President
Trump also stated he had “no”
desire to mend fences with the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, declaring “no intention of speaking to him.”
Initially, the pair appeared to have parted ways amicably following Musk’s departure from a cost-cutting role within the government.
Claims of Influence and Ingratitude
Musk went further, asserting his pivotal role in Trump’s previous election victory. He posted on X, “Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate. Such ingratitude.”
This claim came after Trump had initially praised Musk’s contributions.
The stakes are high, with government contracts awarded to Musk’s companies totaling approximately $18 billion, according to US media reports. As of February 2024, federal contracts represent 18.7% of SpaceX’s total revenue, a significant portion of the company’s income. (Space Policy Online)
Threats and a Potential Truce
Trump retaliated by suggesting that eliminating billions in subsidies and contracts to Musk’s businesses would be a simple way to save taxpayer money. However, both leaders appeared to de-escalate the situation on Friday, with Trump offering a conciliatory “I just wish him well,”
and Musk responding with “Likewise.”
I just wish him well.
The future of their relationship remains uncertain, but the public spat highlights the complex interplay between political power, personal ambition, and the influence of tech billionaires in modern American politics.
