Trump Warns Elon Musk of ‘Serious Consequences’ Over Potential Support for Democrats
BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — U.S. President Donald Trump escalated his feud with Elon Musk on Saturday, saying he has no intention of reconciling with the billionaire and warning of “serious consequences” if Musk chooses to support Democratic candidates in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
In a phone interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker, Trump confirmed that his relationship with Musk—once a close political ally and donor—is effectively over.
“I would assume so, yeah,” Trump said when asked if the friendship was done. “I have no intention of speaking to him. I gave him breaks. I saved his life during my first administration.”
Trump’s sharp remarks follow Musk’s public criticism of Trump’s pending tax and spending bill, which Musk called a “disgusting abomination” likely to increase the federal deficit. Musk also suggested Trump should be impeached and accused his administration of hiding records related to Jeffrey Epstein—claims he has since deleted from his social media platform, X.
Musk’s companies—including Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink—are deeply involved in federal contracts, which has led to speculation that Trump’s threat of “consequences” could relate to government funding or access.
Republican Tensions and Vice President’s Response
Vice President JD Vance, speaking in a Friday interview with comedian Theo Von, attempted to ease tensions, saying Musk was simply being emotional and frustrated.
“I hope eventually Elon comes back into the fold,” Vance said. “Maybe that’s not possible now because he’s gone so nuclear.”
While defending Trump’s controversial bill, Vance called Musk an “incredible entrepreneur” and praised his role in the Department of Government Efficiency. However, he dismissed Musk’s social media attacks as “totally insane.”
The proposed bill at the center of the conflict—nicknamed the “Big Beautiful Bill” by Trump—seeks to extend 2017-era tax cuts but is expected to cut health insurance coverage for over 10 million Americans and increase the deficit by more than $2.4 trillion over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
A Fallout Still Unfolding
The feud has split opinions among Republicans, with some urging the two high-profile figures to reconcile. Others worry about Musk’s potential to shift political donations to Democrats—a move that could significantly impact the midterms.
Meanwhile, Musk’s deleted posts accusing Trump of Epstein-related secrecy and calls for impeachment have intensified the drama, even as he remains one of the most influential entrepreneurs in America.
The growing rift highlights the fragility of Trump’s political alliances and the risks involved when once-loyal allies publicly challenge his administration.