The alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has collapsed in spectacular fashion, with the feud now spilling into public view and impacting everything from Tesla’s stock price to the political landscape. The rift began after Musk openly criticized Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination” and warning it would balloon the national debt. Trump, in response, threatened to terminate government contracts with Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, and accused Musk of being “disrespectful to the office of President”.
Tensions escalated further when Musk endorsed calls for Trump’s impeachment on X, replying “Yes” to a post suggesting the president should be removed from office. Musk also referenced the so-called “Epstein files,” claiming Trump was “in” the files related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation and suggesting that was the reason they have not been made public. Trump dismissed these allegations as “old news,” while Musk’s posts fueled speculation and reignited public interest in the Epstein case.
The feud has had immediate financial consequences: Tesla’s stock plunged more than 14% in a single day, wiping out $150 billion in market value, as investors reacted to the political drama and Musk’s increasingly combative stance Trump has warned of “serious consequences” if Musk funds Democratic candidates, making it clear that the relationship is likely over.
Both men have used their respective social media platforms—Trump’s Truth Social and Musk’s X—to trade barbs, with Musk claiming that Trump would not have won the election without his support and financial backing. The fallout has left the Republican Party concerned about losing Musk’s campaign contributions and influence in Silicon Valley, while also raising questions about the future of Musk’s government contracts.
As the feud intensifies, the “Epstein files” remain shrouded in secrecy, with both sides using the issue as ammunition in their public battle. The political and financial ramifications of the Trump-Musk split are still unfolding, and observers are watching closely to see what comes next.
