Trump remarked about Elon Musk: "He has lost his mind."

Former US President Donald Trump has taken a direct verbal jab at Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, stating in a recent interview that the billionaire tech entrepreneur has "lost his mind" in a stunning escalation of hostilities between two of the world's most important men. Trump made the heated statement during a televised address on Thursday, expressing his dissatisfaction with Musk's recent comments and behavior. "I don't know what's going on with him," Trump stated. "Frankly, he's lost his mind. "I do not want to talk to him right now." Background: Trump versus Musk This is not the first time tensions have risen between the former president and the millionaire entrepreneur. Trump has frequently blasted Musk for what he deems "erratic political behavior," most notably for allegedly cozying up to Democrats. Musk, who was originally thought to tilt toward conservative ideals—particularly on issues of free speech and small government—has recently made public remarks and platform decisions that appear to have separated him from Trump's constituency. Business in the crosshairs The stakes are much higher than personal. Trump's severe tone may have political and financial implications, particularly given SpaceX's billions of dollars in federal contracts with NASA and the United States Defense Department. Trump had openly floated the possibility of examining Musk's federal subsidies and transactions only days before, calling them "wasteful". Musk has yet to respond. Elon Musk has not yet replied to Trump's recent remarks. However, Musk has a lengthy history of responding to X (previously Twitter), so a response could be on the way. What This Means This public backlash has made headlines not only in the United States, but around the world. With Trump running for president again in 2024 and Musk's growing clout in politics, technology, and media, this is more than simply a power struggle; it's a battle that could have far-reaching consequences for the future of tech regulation, space exploration, and campaign influence in America.