US President Donald Trump warned his former advisor Elon Musk on Saturday of “serious consequences” if the tech billionaire attempts to punish Republicans who support a controversial spending bill currently before Congress.
Trump’s remarks to NBC News follow a dramatic public fallout between the two powerful figures this week, unfolding mainly on social media. The split was sparked by Musk’s harsh criticism of Trump’s so-called “big, beautiful” spending bill, which Musk called an “abomination.”
Some lawmakers opposed to the bill urged Musk — one of the GOP’s largest financial backers during last year’s presidential election — to fund primary challengers against Republicans who vote in favor of the legislation.
“If he does that, he’ll have to pay very serious consequences,” Trump said, branding Musk “disrespectful,” though he did not specify what penalties might follow. Trump also stated he has “no intention” of repairing their relationship or speaking with Musk again.
Just last week, Trump had praised Musk as he stepped down from his role at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). But the relationship quickly deteriorated after Musk’s outspoken rejection of the spending bill, which is a central piece of Trump’s agenda for a potential second term.
Following Trump’s sharp public response from the Oval Office, the feud intensified, shocking Washington insiders. However, on Friday, both men appeared to soften their stance, with Trump saying, “I just wish him well,” and Musk replying on X, “Likewise.”
Epstein allegations and deleted tweets
Trump’s comments to NBC came after Musk deleted tweets accusing the president of being linked to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Musk claimed Trump appears in unreleased government files related to Epstein, who died in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges.
The Trump administration has acknowledged reviewing thousands of documents related to Epstein, which supporters of Trump’s “MAGA” movement say will expose public figures involved in Epstein’s crimes.
While Trump was named in some unsealed Epstein-related depositions earlier this year, he has never been accused of wrongdoing. Musk’s tweets, which lacked evidence, alleged that Trump’s presence in the files was the reason they remain secret. After doubling down initially, Musk removed the posts by Saturday morning.
Trump dismissed the claims as “old news” and pointed out that even Epstein’s lawyer said he had no involvement.
A complex history
Trump has acknowledged knowing Epstein and socializing with him but denies ever visiting Epstein’s private island, Little Saint James, which prosecutors say was a site for trafficking underage girls.
In a 2002 profile, Trump described Epstein as a “terrific guy” and “a lot of fun to be with,” noting their shared appreciation for “beautiful women,” many of whom were “on the younger side.”
AFP
