The dynamic between Trump and Musk has, for many, been stagnant. What started in 2024 as Musk’s public backing of Trump, the Republican candidate, culminated last Thursday (Friday morning local time) in a barrage of insults and personal attacks, a fitting end to their increasingly tumultuous month-long virtual camaraderie.
Much has been discussed regarding the motivations that drew these two figures together, as well as the obvious fractures that separated them. Musk, the world’s richest man, viewed Trump as a politician willing to embrace his unconventional political beliefs and personal ambitions, despite their sharp differences.
Conversely, the significantly less wealthy 47th U.S. president identified in Musk’s financial resources the means to fuel his re-election bid and navigate the challenges posed by Kamala Harris, who had swiftly replaced Joe Biden. This unexpected alliance—characterized by conflicting personalities—was surprising and, as it turned out, doomed from the onset.
The circumstances surrounding their public split, which resembled a soap opera far exceeding the drama of “Dynasty,” are neither intricate nor require extensive analysis. Trump and Musk share so many similarities that even the faintest rift quickly shattered the fragile bond between them. A glance back at their brief yet intense relationship reveals that its rapid inception foreshadowed its demise.
The stakes escalated quickly, with Trump threatening to withdraw any government subsidies from Musk’s companies, while Musk retaliated with claims about Trump’s connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein—comments he later retracted.
According to a recent report by The New York Times, Trump received a call from Musk late Monday, just before Musk admitted through a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) that he had “gone too far” with his remarks.
The Times, citing three insiders, noted that Musk reached out to Trump following a private discussion with Vice President J.D. Vance and Chief of Staff Suzie Wiles, aiming to pave a way for reconciliation. Musk expressed regret for some of his statements regarding the president.
Musk had intensified his critiques, particularly targeting Trump’s “Big and Beautiful Bill,” which he believed exacerbated U.S. debt. He even insinuated that Trump’s name was among those that delayed the release of Epstein’s records. Although Musk hinted at a desire to mend fences, Trump appeared less inclined to reconcile, at least publicly, until recently.
The day following Musk’s conversation with Wiles and Vance, he deleted his posts about Trump’s alleged ties to Epstein. Trump publicly stated he was finished with Musk, but behind the scenes, both sides were reportedly working towards a détente, according to the New York Times.
Their relationship lasted only a year…
June 13, 2024
Musk publicly supports Trump for the first time
August 12, 2024
Musk “self-nominates” for governor
November 6, 2024
Trump wins the election
November 12, 2024
DOGE
Announces creation of DOGE
February 11, 2025
Musk stands with Trump in the Oval Office
May 22, 2025
Musk announces his departure from the administration
May 30, 2025
Trump officially bids Musk farewell
June 3, 2025
Musk’s first critique of Trump’s economic bill
June 5, 2025
Trump publicly confirms the split with Musk
But can money win over power?
The conflict between Trump and Musk appears to be just beginning. While the preceding events may seem serious, it seems the first round has gone to the President over the tycoon. Trump detests losing and favors quick fulfillment of promises made to him. In their 2024 agreement, he seemingly sought “exclusivity” from Musk at all levels.
Musk, in a challenging deal for Trump, agreed to devote significant time to the president’s agenda, proving more costly than the hundreds of millions spent on his campaign and supporting Trump through various hurdles in his first four months in office. To maintain a position within Trump’s administration, Musk made substantial sacrifices, potentially costing himself billions while backing initiatives including tariffs and “Liberation Day.”
In return, Trump created a substantial department at Musk’s urging—the DOGE—and appointed him as its head for a designated period. Upon initial assessment, it appears Musk contributed more than he received, especially as Trump’s belief in Musk’s plans for cutting government spending seemed doubtful. The root cause of their eventual fallout lay within the budget Trump aimed to pass, which had just barely cleared the first Senate hurdle. Musk’s objections stemmed from Trump’s refusal to embrace electrification and his aversion to anyone attempting to overshadow him.
Musk’s primary grievance revolved around the administration’s choice to retain political ally Secretary of State Marco Rubio, contrasting with Trump’s decision not to renew Musk’s role. Musk’s bitterness was evident as he realized his standing among the Democrats was diminished. His critiques of Trump’s resilience proved ineffective, failing to impact the president, exemplified by insinuations linking Trump to Epstein’s case.
Trump, just prior to winning re-election, faced a multitude of criminal charges regarding funds used to silence a high-profile actress. He had previously attempted to silence critics when recorded making sexist remarks prior to his initial election campaign.
The outcome remained unchanged: Trump triumphed and completed his term, illustrating his character. Musk, unable to financially threaten Trump, may soon face the opposite reality. Notably, Trump’s response to Musk’s critiques hinted at the financial leverage associated with government contracts, particularly involving SpaceX. In the contest of money versus authentic power, the odds favor power.
Musk still has a chance
Elon Musk may be eccentric and has faced criticism for his recent high-profile behavior, but he is not naïve. He risks significant losses if he continues his feud with Trump but possesses valuable insights on how to navigate this delicate situation. While he lacks a reputation for patience, shared traits with Trump may aid him.
His recent posts suggest potential strategies moving forward, including a poll on X where he gauged public interest in forming a central party. Musk understands the pulse of American public sentiment and knows how to wield influence. If he exercises restraint—admittedly challenging—there’s a chance for a comeback, though initial signs suggest it could take time.
Conversely, Trump may find it difficult to win over Musk or other wealthy individuals who might cooperate with his administration but will struggle to entertain the idea that anyone is indispensable besides himself. How Musk navigates the limited options at his disposal will depend on timing and his supporters. Currently, the public fallout from aligning with Trump leaves Musk with uncertain prospects for a second act.
In the end, regardless of who emerges victorious—Trump or Musk—both the U.S. and the world may bear the consequences.
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