Washington, D.C. — June 5, 2025
In a striking development that underscores growing tensions between two of the most high-profile figures in American business and politics, former President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he is ending his relationship with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. The decision comes after Musk publicly criticized Trump’s controversial tax bill, calling it “a short-sighted and self-serving piece of legislation.”
Speaking from a press briefing at the White House, Trump did not mince words.
“Elon has been attacking my tax bill out of personal frustration,” Trump said. “I’ve always supported innovation, always supported Elon, but when someone starts going after you just because they didn’t get what they want — that’s when it’s over.”
The remarks signal a definitive rift in a relationship that has, over the years, swung between admiration and skepticism. Musk had served on several advisory councils during Trump’s presidency, though he resigned from those positions in 2017 following Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord.
Musk responded on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The tax bill benefits the ultra-rich while punishing innovation and long-term investment. I speak out not for myself, but for the future of American enterprise.”
The latest tax legislation — backed by Trump and passed narrowly by Congress — introduces deep cuts for top earners while removing several incentives for green energy development and research. Critics argue it disproportionately benefits corporations and the wealthy, while stifling growth in the clean tech sector — a point Musk has repeatedly emphasized.
Political analysts say the fallout could have broader implications as both men remain influential in shaping public discourse and economic policy.
“Trump and Musk represent two powerful wings of American capitalism,” said Dr. Elaine Wu, a political economist at Georgetown University. “This clash isn’t just personal — it’s philosophical. It reflects a deeper divide over the future of innovation, taxation, and national priorities.”
As of now, it remains unclear whether the split will affect federal contracts involving Musk’s companies or ongoing collaborations in space and defense.
But for now, the message is clear: the Trump-Musk alliance is over — and neither seems likely to back down.
