Former President Donald Trump has publicly expressed disappointment in Elon Musk, accusing the Tesla CEO of flip-flopping on an electric vehicle (EV) mandate tied to a controversial bill. In remarks at a recent event, Trump claimed Musk initially supported the legislation and only objected after Congress moved to cut EV subsidies, which he implied would financially impact Tesla.
Trump alleged that Musk had an intimate understanding of the bill’s contents but developed objections only after changes were made to the EV mandate. “He knew everything about it. He had no problem with it. All of a sudden, he had a problem,” Trump said.
The former president also suggested that Musk’s resistance stemmed from a financial interest in maintaining EV subsidies. “It really is unfair. We want to have cars of all types: electric, gasoline combustion, hybrids. We want to be able to sell everything. But when [the EV mandate] was cut, it became a little bit different,” Trump stated.
Musk wasted no time responding to Trump’s claims, taking to Twitter to dispute the allegations. “False,” Musk wrote. “This bill was never shown to me even once and was passed in the dead of night so fast that almost no one in Congress could even read it!”
The tweet from Musk directly contradicts Trump’s assertion that Musk was well-versed in the bill’s provisions.
A History of Cooperation and Tension
Trump also lamented what he sees as a souring of relations between himself and Musk, citing prior support Musk had expressed for him. “He said the most beautiful things about me,” Trump recalled. While Trump acknowledged that Musk hasn’t criticized him personally, he speculated it could happen next.
Musk’s rapid response on Twitter highlights his willingness to challenge high-profile political figures when his reputation or interests are at stake.
Political Fallout
The clash underscores the broader debate over the future of EV subsidies and mandates in the United States. Trump’s comments reflect a push for a more inclusive automotive market, while Musk’s Tesla has historically benefited from policies promoting EV adoption.
Observers note that the disagreement could have implications for both Trump’s political standing and Musk’s public image, especially as the nation grapples with transitioning to sustainable energy.
What’s Next?
As this story unfolds, questions remain about the contents and process surrounding the bill. Musk’s allegations of a rushed legislative process could reignite discussions about transparency in policymaking. Meanwhile, Trump’s comments signal his ongoing commitment to challenging the Biden administration’s EV agenda.
Both men remain central figures in their respective spheres, and this latest clash is unlikely to be the last time their paths cross in public discourse.