The rift between US President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk deepened on Friday, with Trump unleashing scathing attacks against his former ally and dismissing any hope of reconciliation. Speaking in a series of media interviews, Trump went so far as to claim Musk is “losing his mind,” marking a sharp turn in what was once a seemingly supportive relationship.
The clash escalated after Musk accused Trump of being named in the infamous “Epstein files,” referring to documents connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In response, Trump posted a denial on his TruthSocial platform, citing a statement from Epstein’s former criminal defence attorney, David Schoen. “I can say authoritatively, unequivocally and definitively that [Epstein] had no information to hurt President Trump,” Schoen said. “I specifically asked him!”
Trump: “I’m Not Interested in Talking to Elon”
Trump, in multiple phone conversations with US media outlets, doubled down on his anger. During a conversation with ABC News, when asked whether there was any chance of peace between the two billionaires, Trump replied bluntly: “You mean the man who has lost his mind?”
He added, “not particularly,” when asked about reconnecting with Musk.
In another conversation with CNN, Trump took a jab at the tech mogul’s mental state. “I’m not even thinking about Elon. He’s got a problem. The poor guy’s got a problem.”
Interestingly, while speaking to Politico, Trump contradicted himself slightly by saying, “the relationship with Musk was going very well, never done better.”
Musk Teases New Political Party, Trump Unbothered
Musk, known for his unpredictable online presence, hinted at launching a new centrist political party aimed at representing “the 80 per cent in the middle.” He claimed his financial muscle would allow him to heavily fund this political venture.
The verbal duel took another turn when hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman urged the two to make peace “for the benefit of our great country.” Musk seemed receptive, responding with a symbolic olive branch. However, Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff, promptly dismissed any chance of dialogue, telling NBC News, “There are no plans” for a call between the two men.
From Friends to Foes Over “Big Beautiful Bill”
The animosity traces back to Musk’s harsh criticism of Trump’s controversial tax and spending plan — dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Musk labeled it a “disgusting abomination,” citing concerns that it would balloon the national debt by $2.4 trillion and eliminate health insurance for over 10 million Americans.
Trump, in turn, expressed frustration: “Very disappointed in Elon,”he said, setting off the current spiral of insults and accusations.
