Elon Musk and Donald Trump's feud began after Musk criticized Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a tax and spending plan that Musk believed would hurt American innovation, particularly in the electric vehicle industry. Trump retaliated by threatening to revoke government subsidies for Tesla and SpaceX, claiming it would save "Billions and Billions of Dollars".
*Key Events in the Feud:*
- *Musk's Criticism*: Musk called the bill a "disgusting abomination" and warned it would harm the country's innovation.
- *Trump's Retaliation*: Trump threatened to cut federal support to Tesla and exclude Musk from EV policy decisions.
- *Epstein Files*: Musk hinted that Trump might be mentioned in the unreleased Epstein files, stoking conspiracy fires.
- *Public Mudslinging*: Both Musk and Trump engaged in public insults, with Trump saying Musk had "lost his mind" and Musk accusing Trump of deception and failed leadership.
*Reactions:*
- *JD Vance's Support*: US Vice President JD Vance voiced strong support for Trump, praising his leadership.
- *Ashley St. Clair's Jibe*: Ashley St. Clair, who claims to be the mother of one of Musk's children, offered Trump "breakup advice" on Twitter.
- *White House Response*: The White House called Musk's comments about Trump and Epstein "an unfortunate episode".¹