Washington, 7 June (H.S.): Donald Trump recently indicated that he has no intention of engaging in dialogue with Elon Musk amid their ongoing feud related to a significant tax-cut bill. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump noted that he was not focused on Musk but wished him success with Tesla. Despite the rift, Trump mentioned that a review of Musk’s substantial government contracts would be necessary, highlighting the financial implications involved. This feud appears unresolved, with Musk’s high-profile supporters remaining mostly silent during the dispute. The situation reflects a broader tension between the two influential figures, raising questions about Musk’s future collaborations with the government.
Trump may sell the red Tesla Model S he purchased in March after showcasing the cars on the White House lawn. A White House official noted this anonymously. Musk criticized Trump’s tax and spending bill on his social media platform X, suggesting it would harm Republicans politically and increase the nation’s debt. He responded affirmatively to suggestions that his criticisms led Trump to attack him personally. Musk is calling for a new political party to represent middle-ground Americans. Those close to Musk indicate that his anger may be easing, and he could seek to mend ties with Trump, following a public feud that marked a significant shift in their previously close alliance. Tesla’s stock rebounded slightly after a significant drop the previous day, which erased $150 billion in value.
Musk’s supporters, including investor James Fishback, have urged him to apologize, expressing disappointment over Musk’s recent actions. Musk previously played a crucial role in supporting Trump’s 2024 campaign but has now criticized the administration’s key policies.
Trump’s bill passed the House and is now with the Senate, where Republicans are expected to modify it. Analysts predict it will add $2.4 trillion in debt over a decade. House Speaker Johnson, in talks with Musk, expressed hopes for a quick resolution but noted the tension. Trump, initially silent, expressed disappointment in Musk after Musk criticized the bill and suggested Trump’s impeachment, claiming Trump would have lost support without his backing. Trump threatened to terminate government contracts with Musk’s companies, including SpaceX and Starlink.
Musk retaliated by threatening to decommission SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft but later retracted that threat. The feud escalated when Trump revoked the nomination of Musk ally Jared Isaacman for NASA, influenced by White House personnel director Gor, who had a contentious relationship with Musk. This ongoing conflict could jeopardize Republican control in the upcoming midterms if Musk pulls financial support, as he has indicated plans to reduce his political spending and call for accountability from politicians.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
