A growing rift between US President Donald Trump and billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk erupted into a public spat on Thursday, as both men exchanged sharp insults on their respective social media platforms.
The fallout began after Musk harshly criticised Trump’s flagship tax and spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination” and accusing lawmakers who backed it of poor judgment.
The bill, which passed the House and awaits Senate approval, has been central to Trump’s domestic agenda.
Trump, in turn, expressed “disappointment” with Musk’s stance, suggesting it could mark the end of their once “great relationship.”
Musk fired back, accusing Trump of “ingratitude”, and claimed, “Without me, Trump would have lost the election.”
Despite the online hostility, Trump appeared to soften later in the day, telling Politico, “Oh, it’s okay. It’s going very well, never done better.”
Reports say a phone call between the two has been scheduled for Friday.
Musk’s break with Trump intensified shortly after his resignation from the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), where he served for 129 days.
He has since urged Americans to call their lawmakers and oppose the spending bill, citing its potential to increase national debt.
The spat suggests a bitter end to the unlikely political alliance between the two billionaires, once seen as influential allies.