In an unexpected twist in the ongoing rivalry between President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk, Trump took a shot at Musk, claiming the billionaire had gone from hating him to now having to “kneel and kiss my a**.” This bold statement from the president during a recent speech at a rally has sent ripples through both political and tech circles, shedding light on the evolving dynamics between two of the most influential figures in the world.
The tension between Trump and Musk has been well documented, with both men publicly criticizing each other on multiple occasions. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and Trump have often clashed over policy, politics, and personal matters. However, Trump's latest remarks highlight a dramatic shift in the relationship between the two men, one that is now shifting towards a more supportive stance from the tech industry toward Trump, according to his own comments.
During his speech, Trump did not shy away from praising Musk, calling him “terrific” and celebrating his success. Yet, Trump’s praise came with a sharp edge as he highlighted how attitudes in Silicon Valley have changed since his first term in office.
“Elon is so terrific. They all hated me in my first term, and now they are kissing my a**,” Trump boasted. “You know…it’s true. All of them. It’s true.”
The president's comments are a pointed reference to how Musk, along with many other tech leaders, was initially vocal in his opposition to Trump’s administration. Musk had previously made public remarks about Trump, especially criticizing some of his policies and his handling of the presidency.
But in a stunning reversal, Trump’s recent comments reflect his belief that Silicon Valley’s elites, once critical of him, are now willing to support him.
The remarks also come at a time of significant change for Musk. The billionaire entrepreneur is set to resign from his role as the special government official for DOGE, a position he has held for a short term, which is set to come to an end on May 30.
Musk has clarified that he intends to remain involved on a part-time basis even after stepping down from his formal duties. This shift in his role within the government could have long-lasting effects on both his public persona and his relationship with Trump.
The relationship between Trump and Musk has been complicated and, at times, openly hostile. Musk has not been shy in criticizing Trump, particularly when it comes to the former president’s age and fitness for another term.
In 2022, Musk suggested that Trump should “hang up his hat and sail into the sunset,” calling for a departure from the political scene.
“I don’t hate the man, but it’s time for Trump to hang up his hat & sail into the sunset,” Musk said at the time. “Dems should also call off the attack —don’t make it so that Trump’s only way to survive is to regain the Presidency.”
Musk’s comments were seen by many as a call for the GOP to move beyond Trump and embrace a younger, fresher political vision. In response, Trump dismissed Musk’s remarks, making it clear that he felt Musk would have been “on his knees begging” for his help when he first visited the White House during his presidency.
Trump’s dig at Musk sparked a wave of reactions across social media platforms, with netizens divided over the president’s comments. While some users sided with Trump, others were quick to call him out for his perceived lack of decency. One user responded, “This guy has no decency,” while another criticized Musk, saying, “Elon sucks. H1B visas. Anti-Americans.”
On the other hand, some social media users found Trump’s comments entertaining, with one remarking, “Very presidential of him,” acknowledging Trump’s characteristic boldness. A more cautionary tone was offered by another user, who stated, “Oh Donald, you’ll regret those words,” suggesting that Trump’s mockery of Musk could backfire in the future.
The shift in Musk’s attitude toward Trump is undeniable. Once a vocal critic of the former president, Musk has gradually distanced himself from his previous opposition. In recent months, Musk has become more aligned with Trump’s political positions, especially in terms of issues like free speech and government interference.
The tension between the two men has not entirely dissipated, but Musk’s evolution suggests that the Silicon Valley mogul may have softened his stance toward Trump in light of changing political and business dynamics.
Musk’s changing relationship with Trump could have broader implications, especially given Musk’s enormous influence in the tech industry. As CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and the social media platform X, Musk has a significant platform to affect both policy and public opinion.
His shift toward aligning with Trump may signal a broader trend within the tech industry, where conservative voices have increasingly gained traction in recent years.
As Trump’s political career continues to evolve, and Musk remains at the forefront of technological innovation, their relationship will likely continue to be a source of intrigue and controversy. Musk’s impending resignation from DOGE and his ongoing leadership of companies like Tesla and SpaceX put him in a powerful position, one that could further impact his relationship with Trump and his place in the political landscape.
For Trump, Musk’s influence is undeniable, and his comments about Musk’s shift in attitude toward him suggest that the president sees a potential ally in the tech mogul. However, as their relationship continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether this new dynamic will bring them closer together or lead to further public clashes in the future.
In conclusion, Trump’s remarks about Musk serve as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of political alliances in America, particularly in the intersection between tech and politics. What began as a bitter rivalry has now transformed into a complex and evolving relationship, one that could have far-reaching consequences for both figures and their respective industries.
Whether this change is a sign of lasting cooperation or a temporary truce remains to be seen.