Silent Rift Emerges Between Musk and the Millers Amid High-Profile Feud
Before the explosive public fallout between Elon Musk and Donald Trump took center stage on social media, a quieter but significant divide was already forming—this time between Musk and one of Washington’s most influential couples, Stephen and Katie Miller.
Who Are the Millers and What’s at Stake?
Stephen Miller, a key architect within Donald Trump’s inner circle and former White House deputy chief of staff, is married to Katie Miller, who once acted as Elon Musk’s spokesperson. However, following Musk’s gradual retreat from the DOGE cryptocurrency association, Katie shifted her focus entirely to working alongside Musk.
This decision has gained weight in the wake of Musk and Trump’s increasingly hostile exchanges on social media. The feud escalated when Musk insinuated that Trump might be impeached and replaced by Vice President JD Vance, while Trump responded with threats to retract federal contracts tied to Musk’s businesses.
The Millers Caught in the Crossfire
As tensions rose, the Millers found themselves in an uncomfortable position, straddling two conflicting loyalties.
Katie Miller, who recently accompanied Musk during interviews in Texas following SpaceX’s ninth Starship test flight, has demonstrated clear support for Musk on social platforms. Her profile features a SpaceX rocket as her header and proudly identifies her as “wife of @stephenm.” Her posts often spotlight Musk’s accomplishments, including a witty engagement responding to a viral meme of her husband jokingly portrayed as a Home Depot employee.
One former associate warned that this tightrope walk may not last: “She can’t align with both Elon and Trump — eventually, she’ll have to choose.” Meanwhile, Musk unfollowed Stephen Miller on X (formerly Twitter) amid the turmoil, whereas the Millers continue to follow Musk.
Political Repercussions for Stephen Miller
Stephen Miller’s influence within Trump’s Washington remains subject to debate. Some insiders argue his standing could suffer, especially if Katie’s close ties to Musk are seen as a conflict of interest. Nevertheless, among Trump’s advisers, Miller holds considerable sway, ranking just below Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, with speculation that he could ascend further should Wiles depart.
Yet, the situation is acknowledged as complicated. A senior official admitted, “This whole scenario makes things messier. Katie’s role working for Musk definitely complicates things for Stephen.” Despite this, others within the administration affirm Trump’s unwavering trust: “Trump trusts Stephen more than nearly anyone. Katie’s job has no bearing on Stephen’s position.”
Market and Political Fallout
The divisive split quickly sent ripples through markets, with Tesla shares plunging 14% on Thursday before recovering partially the next day. The feud also unsettled Republican lawmakers striving to advance a critical spending package amid resistance from both Democrats and some conservatives.
Long-Term Implications for Musk and Trump
Beyond immediate political drama, the rift holds significant consequences for both men’s futures.
- Trump: Risking alienation from tech donors, social media followers, and younger male voters attracted by Musk’s brand could hinder his outreach and fundraising efforts ahead of midterm elections.
- Musk: Falling out of favor with Trump heightens the possibility of intensified scrutiny over his companies’ government contracts, increased regulatory pressure, and potential financial instability for his ventures.
Looking Ahead: Navigating a Divisive Breakup
As the dust settles, close attention remains on how the Millers, Musk, and Trump manage this unprecedented political-business schism — a rift that has sent shockwaves through Washington and beyond.
