The Genesis of the Feud
The relationship between former U.S. President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, once characterized by mutual support and collaboration, dramatically fractured on June 6, 2025. This public feud, played out primarily on social media, revealed deep divisions and raised questions about the future of their respective ventures and political influence.
The Escalation on Social Media
The tensions between Trump and Musk began to surface in the days leading up to June 6, 2025. Musk publicly criticized Trump’s agenda bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination”. This criticism, particularly regarding the bill’s impact on electric vehicle subsidies, reportedly angered Trump. Musk’s departure from his role as a special government employee, leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), further fueled the growing rift .
Key Issues and Accusations
The feud escalated rapidly on social media platforms. Trump responded to Musk’s criticism by suggesting the government could end contracts with Musk’s companies, primarily SpaceX and Tesla. Musk then made a series of provocative statements, including a claim, without providing evidence, that Trump was implicated in the “Epstein files”. He also suggested Trump should be impeached. Trump, in turn, expressed a lack of interest in speaking with Musk and stated that Musk had “lost his mind”. The core of the disagreement appears to be over policy, specifically the Trump administration’s agenda bill and its impact on electric vehicle subsidies. Musk’s criticism of the bill, which he viewed as increasing the budget deficit, contrasted with Trump’s vision for the economy
Trump-Musk feud escalates: What happened? And what comes next? [Al Jazeera]
Trump says Musk ‘lost his mind,’ has no interest in talking with billionaire as public feud simmers [NY Post]
Elon Musk suggests Donald Trump should be impeached, as US president says the former DOGE adviser ‘went CRAZY’. [Al Jazeera]
What the Trump-Musk breakup may mean for SpaceX and Tesla [NPR]
As Trump and Musk fight, Republican unity could become collateral damage [NBC News]



