During a recent interview with the New York Post, the President threw subtle yet pointed shade at his former tech ally, dropping a five-word zinger: “Nothing catches me by surprise.”
Once close collaborators on Trump’s political revival, Elon Musk even held a high-profile role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency — cheekily abbreviated as DOGE.
But their alliance took a nosedive after Musk openly criticized Trump’s hallmark legislation, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping tax reform measure that had just passed the Republican-led House.
Musk didn’t hold back, labeling the bill an “abomination,” which prompted a swift and fiery rebuttal from Trump.
“He was fully briefed on the bill. It’s a terrific bill — it’s going to benefit everyone, including him,” Trump told the New York Post.
“Just look at today’s job numbers. They’re sky-high, and the stock market is already up 600 points.”
Tensions escalated further when Musk posted — then deleted — a claim on X alleging that Trump was named in the Jeffrey Epstein files.
In a follow-up phone interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker, Trump made it clear the friendship had soured.
Asked if the bromance was officially over, he replied, “I would assume so, yeah.”
He added, “I’m busy with more important things. I won in a landslide. I gave Elon a lot of support during my first term — even saved his career. I have no plans to speak with him.”
Trump also warned Musk not to support Democratic candidates, hinting at unspecified “serious consequences” if he did.
“If he does, there will be consequences,” Trump cautioned, leaving the details vague — but given Musk’s ties to major government contracts, the threat seemed to go beyond mere political rhetoric.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the rift on CNN, suggesting Musk’s frustration stemmed from the bill not reflecting his preferred policies.
“The President is focused on passing this landmark legislation and restoring greatness to our nation,” she said.
Appearing later on Hannity, Leavitt noted Musk’s recent praise for Trump’s leadership in slashing government waste and fraud, a key element of the new bill.
“Elon’s a businessman and can voice his opinions,” she said. “But President Trump has a duty to stand up for the American people.”
