Asger Risom
An unexpected phone call and a public apology could mark a new chapter in the strained relationship between the tech mogul and the U.S. president.
For months, the feud between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk simmered in public view, drawing attention from both political observers and the business world. What began as a war of words escalated into a personal rift — and now, an apparent reconciliation.
While their relationship may never fully return to its earlier strength, both sides seem to recognize the strategic benefit of working together again.
Their rivalry wasn’t just about personality. With billions of dollars in government contracts, political influence, and the future of AI and space exploration at stake, their clash carried real consequences.
But with the 2026 midterms on the horizon, and a shifting balance of power in Washington, the stakes have only grown more complex.
A Call to Reconcile
According to Axios, the thaw began with a call from Musk to top White House aides. Within a day of his public dispute with Trump, Musk reached out to Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Vice President J.D. Vance, a longtime Musk ally.
Vance had been suggested by Musk for the VP position during the 2024 campaign and reportedly found himself caught between the two figures during the dispute.
Sources close to Trump stated that the president felt personally betrayed by Musk’s criticism, but not angry — more hurt.
He allegedly joked to aides that Musk was “probably high” when he posted his remarks, referencing The New York Times’ reporting on Musk’s alleged drug use.
The president himself remains staunchly anti-drug and views sobriety as a key character trait, said one adviser.
Calculated Truce or Temporary Pause?
The turning point came when Musk publicly posted a regretful message on X. While insiders say the gesture was appreciated, they also note that the friendship “won’t ever be quite the same.”
Trump, while responding to questions about Musk’s alleged drug use, added that he hoped the reports weren’t true and wished Musk well.
Both figures stand to benefit from renewed cooperation. Musk’s companies, particularly SpaceX, depend on lucrative government contracts.
Trump, meanwhile, received substantial financial backing from Musk during his 2024 campaign, and could once again leverage that influence over key Republican lawmakers.
As reported by Digi24, the political and financial calculus may outweigh personal grievances — at least for now.