White House Chief of Staff Details Troublesome Trump-Musk Split

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles described the public fallout between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk as a "very troublesome ending" to what was initially a productive relationship during the early days of the administration. Wiles praised Musk's unique insights, knowledge of people and technologies, and contributions, especially during the presidential transition, but expressed confusion over the eventual split. The rupture was reportedly triggered by Musk's vocal opposition to Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" reconciliation legislation, which Musk criticized as a "disgusting abomination" and "pork-filled," and by Musk's subsequent announcement of the formation of a new political entity, the America Party, aiming to influence Congress. Trump dismissed Musk's political moves as "ridiculous" and labeled him a "train wreck." Despite the public feud and personal barbs exchanged on social media, Wiles rejected claims that jealousy motivated the split and emphasized her respect for Musk's distinctive worldview and contributions. The relationship, once seen as promising, ultimately ended on a sour note with both sides publicly criticizing each other.