Donald Trump hurt after Elon Musk criticism: “We had a great relationship”

The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk appears to be unraveling fast. Just days after Musk publicly blasted the Trump administration’s massive new spending bill, the former president fired back with a sharp response: “I’m very disappointed.”

What did Elon Musk say about Donald Trump’s bill?

Tensions flared when the Tesla and SpaceX CEO took to X, formerly Twitter, to criticize what he called a bloated and reckless fiscal plan. Although Musk had only recently stepped down from his post in Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) - a departure initially marked by mutual praise - his tone quickly turned confrontational.

“I’m sorry, but I just can’t stand it anymore. This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination,” Musk wrote. “Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.”

“Disappointed” Trump blasts back at Musk

The post sparked widespread debate online and clearly hit a nerve at the White House. Speaking during a press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office, Trump didn’t hold back.

“Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we still do,” Trump said. “I was surprised by what he said. I’m very disappointed because Elon knew the ins and outs of that bill better than anyone.”

“He said very nice things about me before. He hasn’t said anything bad about me personally, but I’m sure that’s coming. I’ve helped him a lot,” Trump added. “And I’m very disappointed.”

Trump’s prediction soon came true, with Musk claiming later on Thursday the U.S. President’s name is “in the Epstein files”.

Trump’s praise for Musk

Still, the former president acknowledged Musk’s performance at DOGE, crediting him with putting in real effort.

“Elon worked hard. He did a good job. Honestly, I think he misses it,” Trump remarked.

A recent report from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that Trump’s fiscal package could add as much as $2.4 trillion to the national debt over the next ten years - a staggering figure that has fueled criticism from both sides of the aisle.

Musk trolls legislation after DOGE departure

Since resigning, Musk has used his X account to relentlessly troll the legislation, sharing memes and sharp critiques while implying that Trump wouldn’t have won reelection without his support.

The fallout between the two billionaires - once seen as unlikely allies - is now playing out in real time, one post and press conference at a time.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.