The USA Leaders
June 9, 2025,
When Titans Turn on Each Other
Just a few years ago, they stood side-by-side—two titans reshaping America’s economy and global influence. One, a populist President wielding political firepower. The other, a visionary billionaire revolutionizing space and electric vehicles. But now? Trump attacks Elon, and it’s not just personal—it’s political, financial, and potentially catastrophic.
In a week filled with fiery interviews, plummeting stock prices, and cryptic tweets, Donald Trump has made one thing very clear: the bromance is over, and the gloves are off.
Trump’s Public Ultimatum
During an explosive NBC interview, Trump declared war on Elon Musk, claiming the billionaire had “lost his mind” and “will pay a price” if he supports Democrats in the 2024 election. “I have no intention of talking to him again,” Trump said bluntly.
The former President’s warning wasn’t empty rhetoric. Analysts suggest he may wield significant influence over $22 billion in federal contracts granted to SpaceX and Tesla—especially as he prepares for a possible second term and finalizes his “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
Business Blowback: Tesla & Musk Hit Hard
Musk didn’t take the attack lightly—nor did Wall Street. After Trump’s remarks aired, Tesla’s stock tumbled 14%, wiping out nearly $150 billion in shareholder value. Musk’s fortune took a direct hit, with $34 billion shaved off his net worth in a single day, according to Forbes’ Billionaire Tracker.
Meanwhile, investors are growing wary of how deeply political feuds can impact long-term corporate strategy.
SpaceX’s Billion-Dollar Silence
SpaceX, the crown jewel in Musk’s empire, is also on the line. With billions in NASA and Pentagon contracts, many insiders speculate that a second Trump term could mean serious trouble if relations aren’t mended. The company has remained publicly silent, but leadership insiders have expressed concern about being caught in a political crossfire that’s escalating fast.
Elon’s Response: Humor Meets Strategy
Musk responded in typical fashion—on X (formerly Twitter)—with sarcasm and self-deprecation. In one tweet, he joked about “character assassination, especially by me.” But he also took indirect jabs, hinting that Trump’s name might appear in unsealed Epstein files, a move that stirred massive backlash.
Still, Musk hasn’t ruled out a political pivot—fueling speculation about a future third-party movement or even his rumored “America Party.”
What the Public Thinks: The Polls Are In
According to a fresh YouGov poll (June 5, 2025):
71% of Republican voters back Trump in the feud.
Just 6% support Musk.
Among Independents, most are neutral, while Democrats view the feud as political theater.
The divide is real—and growing. For business leaders, this signals just how entwined public perception, politics, and private enterprise have become.
Global Impact: Allies Are Quiet
Even Trump’s international allies, like Argentina’s President Javier Milei and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, have distanced themselves from the drama. Behind closed doors, European EV suppliers and Asian investors are closely watching, nervous about what this fight means for future innovation and regulation.
A Billionaire Battle with Billion-Dollar Stakes
This isn’t just another internet spat—it’s a seismic shift in the balance of power. Trump attacks Elon, but what’s really at stake is far bigger: the future of American tech, the stability of political-business alliances, and the risk of allowing ego to undermine innovation.
For business leaders watching this unfold, the lesson is clear:
When power, politics, and profit collide, your next billion could disappear in a tweet.
