Here’s what Trump had to say.
President Donald Trump made headlines Tuesday after offering his clearest answer yet on where things stand with Elon Musk following their high-profile disagreement earlier this year. And despite months of speculation, Trump says there’s still “a lot of respect” between the two men.
⭐ Trump: “I Like Elon a Lot”
At the close of the administration’s monthly Cabinet meeting, FOX Business reporter Edward Lawrence asked Trump whether Musk had officially returned to his inner circle.
Trump didn’t hesitate: “Well, I really don’t know. I like Elon a lot.”
The president also pointed out Musk’s strong backing during the 2024 campaign, even though the two clashed over electric-vehicle mandates and parts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
⭐ Musk’s Big Role in Trump’s Second Term
In the early months of Trump’s second administration, Musk became a key player inside the White House:
- Served as a special government employee
- Helped lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
- Attended multiple Cabinet meetings
- Worked directly with Trump on cutting waste, fraud, and government overspending
- Frequently joined Trump at public events
DOGE became one of Trump’s most talked-about initiatives, especially among conservatives frustrated with Washington bureaucracy.
⭐ Musk’s Campaign Support Delivered Major Wins
During the 2024 election cycle, Musk traveled across numerous battleground states — all of which ultimately swung for Trump over Kamala Harris.
Trump repeatedly credited Musk for helping boost voter turnout, especially among suburban men and younger independents.
⭐ What Caused the Rift
The relationship collapsed in June after Musk publicly attacked Trump’s signature One Big Beautiful Bill, calling it the:
“BIGGEST debt ceiling increase in HISTORY.”
Musk followed up by taking a personal jab on X, suggesting:
“@RealDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files.”
Trump later revealed the deeper issue: Musk was furious over Trump’s plan to eliminate federal EV mandates — a direct hit to Tesla’s business model.
In June, Trump signed resolutions overturning California’s strict diesel-engine rules and electric-vehicle sales mandates, saying his signature would:
“Kill the California mandates forever.”
This policy win thrilled conservatives but pushed Musk further away — at least for a while.
⭐ Signs the Trump–Musk Relationship Isn’t Over
Even after the public fallout, Musk gradually moved back into Trump’s orbit:
✔ Praised Trump’s Israel–Gaza ceasefire deal
✔ Supported several presidential decisions on X
✔ Sat beside Trump at Charlie Kirk’s memorial in September
✔ Joined Trump at a White House dinner with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Nov. 18
For two men who dominate the national conversation, their paths continue to cross.
⭐ Trump’s New Comments Leave the Door Open
Trump’s latest remarks came during his ninth Cabinet meeting — already equaling the total number of full Cabinet meetings held by President Biden across four years.
When asked if Musk was officially “back,” Trump didn’t close the door: “I like Elon. Always have.”
For a president who values loyalty — and a tech billionaire who thrives on influence — the Trump-Musk relationship may be entering its next chapter.
