The Journal. Are Trump and Musk Done for Good?
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Jun 9, 2025 
Rebecca Ballhaus, a Wall Street Journal reporter focusing on the dynamics between President Trump and Elon Musk, discusses the unraveling bromance of these two titans. The conversation reveals how a social media spat triggered financial and political fallout. Tensions are dissected as unmet expectations fuel their conflict, impacting crucial business dealings and government contracts. Their relationship exemplifies the high stakes of political alliances, especially with Musk’s companies facing new challenges and regulatory threats.
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Trump and Musk's Public Bromance
- President Donald Trump and Elon Musk had a close public relationship described as a bromance.
- Elon Musk often accompanied Trump on trips and expressed admiration for him publicly and in interviews.
High Stakes Partnership
- The relationship between Trump and Musk was important as Musk was a major campaign donor and influential advisor.
- Musk's influence gave him potential leverage with federal contracts and administration policies benefiting his companies.
Internal Resistance to Musk
- White House aides and cabinet secretaries felt Musk intruded on their territory without official role.
- Musk’s informal influence rankled many government officials who viewed him as bypassing proper protocols.