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The Rise and Fall of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s 'X' Alliance

Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s relationship spanned from early political endorsements and collaboration on government efficiency initiatives to a public falling out over the 'Big Beautiful Bill' in 2025. Initially united in supporting electoral reform and fiscal discipline, the partnership dissolved amid sharp criticisms and policy disagreements, highlighting the challenges of political-business alliances.

The Rise and Fall of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s 'X' Alliance

Introduction

The relationship between former US President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk experienced a significant evolution, culminating in a dramatic fallout triggered by the controversial "Big Beautiful Bill." Once considered influential partners, their alliance unraveled amid public criticisms and political disagreements in mid-2025.

Early Support and Collaboration

July 2024: Endorsements and New Ventures

Following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, Elon Musk publicly expressed his support, tweeting his hopes for the president's swift recovery. Shortly thereafter, Musk announced plans to interview Trump live on his platform "X Spaces" and revealed financial support through a super PAC aimed at promoting principles Musk believed foundational to America.

August–October 2024: Deepening Ties

Musk hosted an X interview with Trump, during which he proposed creating a "government efficiency commission" to streamline operations, asserting his willingness to participate. By October, Musk actively campaigned alongside Trump, donning "Dark MAGA" attire and organizing $1 million giveaways targeted at swing state voters.

Election Night and Formation of DOGE

Spending election night at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, Musk celebrated the subsequent victory with symbolic social media posts. Trump's victory speech notably praised Musk, calling him a "star." Further cementing their partnership, Trump announced the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), appointing Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the initiative focused on reducing government waste, although Ramaswamy exited prior to Trump's inauguration.

Government Role and Rising Tensions

January–February 2025: Official Duties and Public Scrutiny

Musk attended Trump’s inauguration, but a controversial salute sparked public backlash due to its resemblance to a historically charged gesture. Musk and Trump were seen collaborating closely in the Oval Office, defending DOGE’s aggressive cost-cutting strategies and emphasizing electoral mandates for government reform. Musk also participated in Cabinet meetings, with Trump praising his sacrifices for government work.

May 2025: Departure from DOGE and Opposition Emerges

Musk announced his departure from DOGE, describing his term as a special government employee as complete. While Trump lauded Musk’s contributions publicly, Musk returned soon after to oppose the "Big Beautiful Bill," stating it would negate DOGE’s achievements and exacerbate the federal deficit.

Public Fallout and Final Rift

In June 2025, Musk harshly criticized the bill on his social platform, labeling it a "disgusting abomination" and urging voters to hold politicians accountable in upcoming elections. Tensions peaked on June 5 when Trump accused Musk of overstepping and revoked government contracts tied to Musk’s initiatives. Musk retorted by asserting his pivotal role in Trump’s election victory and the political balance in Congress.

Conclusion

The initial partnership between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, rooted in mutual political ambitions and reform initiatives, dramatically deteriorated due to conflicting views on fiscal policies and governance. This high-profile fallout underscores the complexities inherent in alliances between political leaders and business magnates in modern America.

Elon Musk Ends Advisory Role Citing Budget Disputes and Bureaucratic Challenges
Elon Musk Ends Advisory Role Citing Budget Disputes and Bureaucratic Challenges

Elon Musk has concluded his tenure as an advisor to President Trump, primarily due to statutory term limits, opposition to Trump’s “big beautiful bill,” bureaucratic challenges, limited success in reducing government spending, and a strategic shift back to his corporate interests like Tesla. His departure casts uncertainty on the future of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Trump Praises Elon Musk as He Concludes Role Leading DOGE Department
Trump Praises Elon Musk as He Concludes Role Leading DOGE Department

Elon Musk concluded his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency after a 130-day term, drawing praise from former President Donald Trump. Musk's tenure reportedly saved $175 million through efficiency initiatives, despite criticism from Democratic lawmakers. As Musk returns focus to Tesla and SpaceX, Tesla shares have increased amid investor confidence.

Elon Musk Deflects Questions on Alleged Drug Use Amid Trump Campaign Support
Elon Musk Deflects Questions on Alleged Drug Use Amid Trump Campaign Support

During a press event attended by President Donald Trump, Elon Musk sidestepped questions about a report alleging his use of ketamine, Ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms during the Trump 2024 campaign. Musk challenged the credibility of the report’s source and highlighted his significant financial backing and leadership in government spending cuts. The White House acknowledged Musk’s contributions but declined to comment on the drug use claims. The allegations remain unverified as the story develops.

Elon Musk Explains Black Eye: Son’s Punch Sparks Public Curiosity
Elon Musk Explains Black Eye: Son’s Punch Sparks Public Curiosity

Elon Musk appeared with a black eye during his farewell at the White House, explaining the bruise was caused by a playful punch from his son, X Æ A-Xii. The incident attracted media attention amid allegations against Musk, but he clarified it stemmed from family fun. Musk also expressed his ongoing advisory role despite leaving the Department of Government Efficiency.

Elon Musk Explains Black Eye Origin Amid Speculations, Denies French Connection
Elon Musk Explains Black Eye Origin Amid Speculations, Denies French Connection

Elon Musk appeared with a black eye at his farewell press conference, sparking widespread speculation. He explained the injury resulted from playful interaction with his 5-year-old son, dispelling rumors of any French involvement. The event coincided with reports of Musk's alleged drug use during his advisory tenure, which he did not address directly but criticized. Meanwhile, the US President praised Musk’s leadership and the Department of Government Efficiency’s achievements.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump Clash Over Tax Bill Dispute
Elon Musk and Donald Trump Clash Over Tax Bill Dispute

The relationship between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has sharply deteriorated after Musk denounced Trump's tax and spending bill, calling it wasteful. Trump responded with disappointment, accusing Musk of ingratitude and financial motivation. The bill passed by a slim margin, impacting Tesla through removed EV tax breaks. The public spat highlights significant political and personal tensions between the figures.

Trump and Elon Musk Feud Escalates with Explosive Accusations and Political Fallout
Trump and Elon Musk Feud Escalates with Explosive Accusations and Political Fallout

The alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has broken down, evolving into a public conflict marked by sharp critiques of Trump’s budget bill, threats to Musk’s government subsidies, and explosive allegations linking Trump to controversial files. Musk also endorsed Trump's impeachment and proposed Vice President JD Vance as a successor. This feud signals significant political and business ramifications ahead.

8 Ways Elon Musk and Donald Trump Could Escalate Their Public Feud
8 Ways Elon Musk and Donald Trump Could Escalate Their Public Feud

Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s recent public feud on social media threatens to significantly disrupt political alliances and business operations. Musk may leverage his financial resources, social media influence, and companies like SpaceX against Trump, while Trump could retaliate by cutting government contracts, investigating Musk’s background, revoking security clearances, and utilizing presidential powers. This escalating rivalry carries potential consequences for government policies and corporate collaborations.

Elon Musk Steps Down as Chief of Government Efficiency Department
Elon Musk Steps Down as Chief of Government Efficiency Department

Elon Musk has stepped down as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), thanking President Trump for the opportunity. His departure follows criticism of a major spending bill and legal challenges questioning his authority. Musk’s term saw major government cost-cutting but also internal conflicts and unmet goals. He is now refocusing on his business ventures amid recent difficulties.

Elon Musk Steps Down as Head of Government Efficiency Under Trump
Elon Musk Steps Down as Head of Government Efficiency Under Trump

Elon Musk has stepped down as chief of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under President Trump, after leading aggressive cost-cutting reforms. Musk expressed concerns about a Trump spending bill and acknowledged unmet goals. His exit follows legal challenges and a shift in attention back to his businesses, including Tesla and SpaceX facing recent setbacks.

Elon Musk Steps Down from Trump’s Government Efficiency Role Amid Policy Disputes
Elon Musk Steps Down from Trump’s Government Efficiency Role Amid Policy Disputes

Elon Musk announced his resignation from leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), citing disagreements with President Donald Trump’s recent "One Big, Beautiful Bill Act." Musk criticized the bill for increasing the budget deficit and undermining efforts to reduce federal spending. Their collaboration began in 2024 with Musk’s endorsement of Trump and his appointment to DOGE. Despite initial support, the partnership has cooled as Musk steps back to focus on his business ventures.

Elon Musk Exits Government Role Amid Tensions with Trump Over Spending Bill
Elon Musk Exits Government Role Amid Tensions with Trump Over Spending Bill

Elon Musk has announced his exit from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a government role aimed at cutting federal spending. This departure follows disagreements with President Donald Trump over the "One Big, Beautiful Bill Act," which Musk criticized for increasing the budget deficit. Musk had been a close ally of Trump, endorsing him and leading DOGE, but recently reduced his government involvement to focus on Tesla. The White House maintains that budget cuts require separate legislation.

Elon Musk Resigns as Head of DOGE Citing Mission Conflicts and Political Criticism
Elon Musk Resigns as Head of DOGE Citing Mission Conflicts and Political Criticism

Elon Musk has resigned as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) after four months, following his criticism of Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" and challenges balancing his political role with his companies. Musk compared DOGE's future to Buddhism, suggesting the agency will thrive without him. His tenure faced public and investor scrutiny due to impacts on Tesla and SpaceX.

Elon Musk Ends Partnership with Donald Trump over Budget Dispute
Elon Musk Ends Partnership with Donald Trump over Budget Dispute

Elon Musk has resigned from his special government employee position at the Department of Government Efficiency, ending his active collaboration with Donald Trump. The split follows Musk's criticism of Trump's budget bill and a decline in their public support for each other. Despite stepping down, Musk is expected to serve as an informal advisor while focusing back on his business interests amid shifting political dynamics.

Trump Hosts Event as Elon Musk Exits Department of Government Efficiency
Trump Hosts Event as Elon Musk Exits Department of Government Efficiency

President Donald Trump will host a press event to commemorate Elon Musk's departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) after four months leading the agency. Musk's tenure was marked by high-profile staff exits and public disagreements with the administration's policies. Despite leaving, Musk affirmed DOGE’s mission would continue while signaling a shift back to private business focus.

Donald Trump Bids Farewell to Elon Musk After DOGE Departure
Donald Trump Bids Farewell to Elon Musk After DOGE Departure

Elon Musk has exited the Department of Government Efficiency after a four-month stint marked by significant government job cuts and agency closures. Former President Donald Trump commended Musk's contributions and assured his ongoing influence. Despite ambitious goals, the department's cost savings were modest, and Musk faced tensions with political colleagues. Musk's private ventures and personal controversies also surfaced during this period.

Poland's Foreign Minister Mocks Elon Musk Amid Feud with Donald Trump
Poland's Foreign Minister Mocks Elon Musk Amid Feud with Donald Trump

Poland's Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski publicly mocked Elon Musk after the entrepreneur engaged in a heated dispute with former US President Donald Trump. The spat revisits a previous clash when Sikorski questioned Ukraine's reliance on Musk's Starlink service. As tensions grew with Trump threatening Musk's government contracts, Sikorski pointedly commented on the difficulties of political life compared to Musk’s business ventures.

Why Elon Musk Should Embrace Being Called ‘Crazy’ by Donald Trump
Why Elon Musk Should Embrace Being Called ‘Crazy’ by Donald Trump

Former President Donald Trump’s public labeling of Elon Musk as “crazy” highlights Musk’s unconventional yet impactful presence in global politics and business. This designation parallels Trump’s previous use of the term with geopolitical figures like Vladimir Putin, signaling recognition of disruptive power rather than outright disparagement. Musk’s navigation of complex international issues and his technological dominance position him as a key global player, suggesting the 'crazy' tag may be more of a compliment reflecting his strategic influence.