Trump-Musk Feud Threatens Federal Contracts, Markets

A high-profile feud broke out between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk after Musk criticized Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' which features major tax cuts but increases the national debt and reduces clean energy incentives. The dispute escalated on social media, with Musk accusing Trump of Epstein links and Trump threatening to terminate federal contracts with Musk's companies, including SpaceX and Tesla—jeopardizing U.S. space operations and potentially costing Musk's businesses $48 billion over the next decade. The conflict triggered sharp declines in Tesla's stock and Bitcoin, adding financial volatility to the drama. Trump appeared unfazed, highlighting his poll numbers and economic achievements, even as the feud divided public opinion. Analysts warn that breaking ties with Musk's firms would be highly complex and could harm U.S. innovation and national security. The incident underscores the risks of intertwining major business interests with federal policy.