Image Credit: X account @WhiteHouse
Trump Praises Tesla as Musk Apologizes and Pulls Back Criticism
US President Donald Trump extended an olive branch to Elon Musk after a tense week of public spats between the two. At a recent event, Trump made a pointed remark in support of Musk’s company, saying, “I like Tesla,” signaling a de-escalation in hostilities that had roiled both political and financial circles.
Trump Warms Up to Tesla
Speaking at a press conference tied to environmental and economic policy rollouts, Trump departed from his prepared remarks to say, “I like Tesla,” a clear indication that his earlier threats to cut EV subsidies for the company were now off the table. This marks a shift from his previous stance, where he criticized Musk for what he called “disloyalty” and “arrogance” after Musk’s public digs over Trump-era spending policies.
Elon Musk Pulls Back from Attacks
Tesla CEO Elon Musk had previously intensified the feud by criticizing a Trump-backed federal spending bill as a “disgusting abomination.” Musk also fanned the flames with references to Epstein-linked controversies on social media. However, in a rare public reversal, Musk tweeted that his remarks “went too far” and quietly removed the most inflammatory posts from his X (formerly Twitter) profile.
The retraction was interpreted as a move to safeguard Tesla’s standing with federal regulators and major policy stakeholders, especially with upcoming electric vehicle mandates and infrastructure funding tied to federal legislation.
Trump Acknowledges Musk’s Apology
Trump acknowledged Musk’s backpedaling and responded in kind. He referred to Musk as “a friend who got a little bit strange,” suggesting the conflict was more of a personal misunderstanding than a policy rift. Trump also praised Musk’s innovative work, further softening the tone and leaving the door open for future collaboration.
Market and Political Implications
Tesla’s stock, which had taken a hit during the feud, saw a modest rebound following signs of reconciliation. Analysts believe the political tension had created short-term volatility for the EV sector, particularly with Trump signaling potential rollback of green subsidies. With tensions easing, investors appear cautiously optimistic about Tesla’s regulatory future.
The resolution of the Trump-Musk feud could also recalibrate tech-politics dynamics, especially as both figures remain influential in shaping policy on climate, innovation, and digital infrastructure. As both men pivot away from personal attacks, their renewed alignment—however temporary—could have wide-reaching effects on upcoming legislative agendas.
