A Long-Standing Alliance
Donald Trump and Elon Musk have shared a complex history. Early on, the 53-year-old Tesla CEO reportedly spent $300 million supporting Trump’s re-election campaign against Democratic leader Kamala Harris. Trump, in turn, strongly backed Tesla and even appointed Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—a position that didn’t require Senate confirmation.
For a while, both men appeared inseparable online, frequently praising each other on their respective platforms.
A Sudden Shift
However, things have recently taken a turn. Trump sparked concern when observers noticed he suddenly stopped doing one thing—mentioning Musk.
According to Politico, Trump posted about Musk an average of four times a week on Truth Social during February and March. At that same time, Musk and DOGE ordered staff cuts and shut down federal departments.
But since early April, Trump hasn’t mentioned Musk at all.
Musk Follows Suit
Musk mirrored Trump’s silence. Once a near-daily commentator on Trump via his X account, Musk also went quiet in early April.
This mutual silence has only fueled rumors of a rift.
Musk’s Popularity Dips
Meanwhile, Musk’s public image has taken a hit. Polls show declining support, and he’s stepped back from active political involvement. Critics mocked his behavior during the Wisconsin Supreme Court race last month.
“He’s finished, done, gone. He polls terribly. People hate him,” one GOP operative told Politico. “He thinks wearing a cheese hat and acting like a kid will win votes. It’s offensive.”
White House Joins the Silence
Notably, Trump’s team and the official White House account have also stopped referencing Musk. Just last month, rumors swirled that Trump planned to remove Musk from his DOGE role. Musk denied the claim, calling it “false news.”
Musk Responds: “I’ve Done Enough”
During a Bloomberg interview at the Qatar Economic Forum on May 20, Musk addressed the issue indirectly. When asked about future political spending, he replied coolly, “I think, in terms of political spending, I’m going to do a lot less in the future.”
When asked why, Musk simply said, “I think I’ve done enough.” He later added, “If I see a reason to do political spending in the future, I will do it. I do not currently see a reason.”
Public Reacts to the Split
Musk’s comments went viral. Many viewed them as confirmation of a falling-out with Trump.
Online reactions poured in:
-
“Oh this breakup is worse than we expected. Good.”
-
“Some see breakup, others see lessons learned.”
-
“Trump destroys everything he touches. But this one, I don’t mind at all.”
-
“He looks different, like he’s in a dark place. Did Trump abandon him too?”
