Tensions between US President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk have escalated sharply, with Trump publicly warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he chooses to finance Democratic candidates who oppose his administration’s proposed tax cuts and spending bill.
In a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday, Trump accused Musk of being “disrespectful” toward the presidency.
“You could not disrespect the office of the President,” he said.
“If he does [fund Democrats], he’ll have to pay the consequences for that.”
When asked whether he was open to mending ties with Musk following their public feud, Trump flatly replied, “No.” He added, “I would assume so, yeah,” when questioned if their relationship was over.
Political Fallout and Public Spat
The feud follows days of rising tensions after Musk criticized Trump’s proposed “big, beautiful” spending bill during a televised Oval Office address. Trump, visibly irked, said:
“I’m very disappointed in Elon. I’ve helped Elon a lot.”
The comments triggered a sharp response from Musk, who took to social media to claim that Trump wouldn’t have won the 2024 election without his financial support. Musk was reportedly one of Trump’s biggest campaign donors, contributing $300 million.
Musk also stirred controversy by alleging Trump’s name appeared in Jeffrey Epstein’s documents—a claim made without evidence, which was later deleted by the Tesla CEO.
No Reconciliation in Sight
When asked whether he plans to speak to Musk anytime soon, Trump responded:
“I’m too busy doing other things. I have no intention of speaking to him.”
The ongoing rift highlights a dramatic collapse of what was once considered a powerful alliance between Silicon Valley’s most influential figure and the Republican Party’s leader. It now threatens to reshape donor dynamics and intra-party divisions ahead of the 2026 midterms.
