Trump Ends Ties With Musk Amid Feud Over Tax Bill and Democrat Funding Threats

President Donald Trump has severed ties with Elon Musk, warning of "serious consequences" if the Tesla and SpaceX CEO backs Democratic candidates opposing Republicans who support Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump confirmed the fallout, saying, "I would assume so, yeah," when asked if the relationship was over. He added he had no desire to speak with Musk again but hadn’t considered revoking U.S. government contracts with Starlink or SpaceX.

The conflict erupted after Musk labeled Trump’s legislation a “disgusting abomination,” complicating its passage through Congress. The bill, which narrowly passed the House and is now under Senate review, could add $2.4 trillion to the $36.2 trillion national debt over a decade. Despite Musk’s opposition, Trump said he remains confident the bill will pass by July 4.

Trump previously praised Musk, appointing him to lead a federal cost-cutting initiative. Musk’s tenure yielded minimal savings, far from his $2 trillion reduction goal. Musk reportedly contributed nearly $300 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign, helping Republicans regain control of both chambers of Congress.

Amid the backlash, Musk deleted several social media posts attacking Trump, including one calling for the president’s impeachment. Insiders suggest Musk may be attempting to de-escalate tensions. Still, Trump allies like Vice President JD Vance criticized Musk’s remarks, calling them a "huge mistake" but hoping reconciliation is possible.

Trump and Musk had recently appeared together at multiple UFC events. However, Musk is not expected at the next scheduled appearance in New Jersey. The feud marks a sharp turn in what was once a high-profile political and financial alliance between two of America’s most influential figures.