Trump Ends Ties with Musk, Warns Against Democrats
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared the end of his relationship with billionaire Elon Musk, warning of “serious consequences” if Musk financially supports Democratic candidates opposing Trump’s legislative agenda.
In a Saturday interview with NBC News, Trump said he had no plans to reconcile with the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, stating, “I have no intention of speaking to him.” Asked whether the relationship was over, Trump replied, “I would assume so, yeah.”
The fallout comes amid Musk’s fierce criticism of Trump’s tax and spending bill, which he recently called a “disgusting abomination.” Musk’s opposition has complicated efforts to pass the bill, which narrowly cleared the House and now awaits Senate approval. Analysts say the legislation could add $2.4 trillion to the U.S. debt over the next decade.
Despite their rift, Trump said he had not considered canceling federal contracts with Musk’s companies, including Starlink and SpaceX.
Tensions escalated after Musk posted—then deleted—social media messages that appeared to support Trump’s impeachment. In one now-removed post, Musk agreed with a user who suggested Vice President JD Vance should replace Trump. Musk has since begun dialing back his rhetoric, according to sources close to him.
Meanwhile, Vance, appearing on “This Past Weekend” podcast, criticized Musk’s remarks. “I’m always going to be loyal to the president,” he said, while still calling Musk an “incredible entrepreneur.”
Trump expressed confidence that his bill would pass by the July 4 holiday, saying some lawmakers who initially hesitated are now fully backing it. While some Republicans have voiced quiet concerns, none have opposed Trump’s policies or nominations since he began his second term in January.
The once-strong alliance between Trump and Musk had seen the tech mogul donate nearly $300 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign. Musk was also recently appointed to lead a government efficiency drive aimed at cutting federal spending—an effort that delivered modest results.
Trump is scheduled to attend a UFC event Saturday night in New Jersey, a venue he once frequented with Musk. This time, Musk is not expected to join.
