The once-close relationship between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk has unraveled in a very public and bitter split, with both men trading barbs online. Trump declared Musk had gone “CRAZY,” while Musk accused Trump of ingratitude.
Their alliance began during the 2024 election when Musk backed Trump with more than $250 million and helped set up a campaign “war room.” After Trump’s victory, he appointed Musk to lead DOGE and openly endorsed Tesla. This partnership began to fracture over Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping tax and spending measure.
Musk, who had previously criticized the bill, ramped up his attacks. On X, he launched the “Kill Bill” campaign, calling the legislation a “disgusting abomination.” Trump hit back, saying Musk was upset because the bill cut the electric vehicle tax credit and because Trump declined to appoint Musk’s preferred pick to lead NASA.
Musk responded by accusing the government of hiding information about Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein and warned that Trump’s tariff policies could spark a recession. Tensions escalated further after a reported physical altercation between Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and the deepening disagreements over NASA. Musk has since pulled out of Washington, signaling the end of their political partnership.
Public reaction remains sharply split. Some praise Musk for distancing himself from Trump, while others see the move as self-serving. Trump supporters have branded him a traitor, and Democrats remain wary. Trump has warned of “serious consequences” if Musk supports his opponents.
What started as a partnership of mutual benefit has deteriorated into open hostility, with reconciliation appearing unlikely.