What Went Wrong Between Trump and Musk?

Tensions have flared between Elon Musk and Donald Trump after the Tesla and SpaceX CEO publicly criticized the president’s sweeping tax-and-spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination.”

The bill, which aims to extend Trump’s 2017 tax cuts while significantly increasing spending on defense and border security, has drawn criticism from fiscal conservatives, many of whom echoed Musk’s concerns.

The fallout marks a turning point in Musk’s political alignment, especially following his resignation as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an office created by Trump to reduce federal spending.

During his time at DOGE, Musk promised to slash $2 trillion in expenditures. However, official U.S. Treasury figures show only $19 billion in actual cuts, well below targets. The rift comes despite Musk spending nearly $300 million supporting Trump’s 2024 campaign and the GOP.

Insiders say top aides like Stephen Miller were angered by Musk’s remarks, viewing them as a public break from the administration. Musk, however, has pledged to continue advising Trump while shifting focus back to his business empire.