Trump appears to be growing increasingly agitated with Musk.
A Changing RelationshipInitially, Elon Musk and Donald Trump shared a harmonious bond. But times have changed, and the bond between the US President and the tech tycoon is now under strain. As per a report by the "Wall Street Journal", Trump is less than impressed with Musk's crusade against the "Big Beautiful Bill" - a tax and spending proposition that Trump fondly refers to. High-ranking White House officials have confirmed this sentiment.
The Economic Disconnect
While Trump champions the "Big Beautiful Bill", Musk has escalated his criticism of it. The report suggests that Trump is bewildered by Musk's intensified backlash, especially after collaborating closely for four months. Even top Trump advisors were taken aback by the latest remarks. Musk served as the lead for a government department, "Doge", following Trump's inauguration, resulting in significant cuts across US agencies. However, his tenure ended in May.
NASA: A Twist in the Tale
The strain between the two seems to be magnified by Jared Isaacman's withdrawal as a nominee for NASA's top job. Musk had endorsed Isaacman's candidacy, and Isaacman has ties with Musk's space company, SpaceX, havingparticipated in SpaceX's first private space flight. SpaceX frequently secures contracts from NASA.
Musk expressed his dissatisfaction over Isaacman's withdrawal, stating, "It's rare to find someone so competent and kind-hearted." Musk reportedly vented to close associates over the weekend about his perceived betrayal, asserting that after donating hundreds of millions to Trump's campaign, he should have expected support for Isaacman's nomination.
TheDisgustingMonsterBill: Musk's Harsh Criticism
In the past week, Musk has been vocal in his criticism of the tax bill, labeling it a "disgusting abomination." He urged lawmakers to reconsider their stance on the bill, warning them that supporting it could lead to electoral defeat in the 2026 midterm elections. According to Musk, the bill intends to increase the budget deficit and the national debt.
Trump's Law Proposal: A Divisive Agenda
Trump's proposed law includes the extension of the 2017 tax cuts indefinitely, offset by significant cuts to Medicaid and food assistance for the poor. Trump is pushing the Senate to pass the bill by U.S. Independence Day on July 4th, despite objections even from fellow Republicans. The House of Representatives has already passed the 1116-page bill.
A Deteriorating Friendship
When asked about the current state of the relationship between Trump and Musk, a White House staffer told the Wall Street Journal it's too early to tell. While Trump can be forgiving, he doesn't forget insults of this nature.
Even before Musk's escalated attacks on the tax law, allies of Trump were worried about Musk's potential to criticize more openly post-White House. Some government officials reportedly encouraged lawmakers to publish positive social media posts thanking Musk for his service, hoping such praise would placate him.
Insight: The strain between Trump and Musk began over Musk's opposition to Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill", a tax and spending bill that includes significant tax cuts and reductions in spending, including the elimination of electric vehicle subsidies that may impactTesla's business. (WSJ)
Insight: Trump's proposed law includes the extension of the 2017 tax cuts indefinitely, offset by significant cuts to Medicaid and food assistance for the poor. (WSJ)
The Commission might have also been consulted on the implications of the draft directive related to the technology and politics present in the "Big Beautiful Bill" that is currently under scrutiny.
The general news, as reported by the "Wall Street Journal," indicates that Musk's strong opposition to the "Big Beautiful Bill" has strained his relationship with President Trump, leading to a deteriorating friendship and escalated criticism from both sides.
