In the particular report, it has been brought to light that billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk personally called upon former President Donald Trump to rescind the recent global tariffs. However, this weekend, as reported by The Washington Post, was not conducive to Musk’s objectives.
People from different countries commented about the newly estimated tariffs, which ended up causing some market turmoil and ripping trillions’ worth of value.
Increasingly war of words between Trump and Musk
In particular, Musk, once a die-hard Trump supporter, but now a dissident over his trade policies. Musk dropped close to $290 million during the last election cycle to Trump and Republican candidates. The billionaire entrepreneur also spearheaded the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims at trying to reduce federal spending. However, from issues over trade, they have, however, widened their rift.
Musk Clashes with Trump’s Trade Adviser
The conflict escalated when Musk publicly criticized Peter Navarro, Trump’s key trade adviser and the architect behind the tariff plan. On X (formerly Twitter), Musk dismissed Navarro’s economic expertise, stating:
“A PhD in Econ from Harvard is a bad thing, not a good thing.”
Navarro fired back during a CNBC interview, referring to Musk as a mere “car assembler.” Musk didn’t hold back in his response:
“Navarro is truly a moron. Tesla is the most vertically integrated auto manufacturer in America with the highest percentage of U.S. content.”
He later added, “He’s dumber than a sack of bricks.”
White House Downplays Feud
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, when asked about the heated duel, dismissively said:
“These are two individuals with very different views on trade and tariffs. Boys will be boys, and we’ll let them have their public sparring. We are proud to have the most transparent administration in history.”
Musk Wants Free Trade for U.S. and Europe
Whatever the tension, Musk is the one with his push for free trade. In his recent intervention with Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, he spoke of free trade and no tariffs between the U.S. and Europe, thereby making a case against Trumpian protectionism:
“Ideally, both Europe and the United States should move toward a zero-tariff situation. I also believe people should have more freedom to work across borders if they choose.”
Ploy against Trump Tariff
Trump’s tough trade policies have come under fire not just from Musk, but also economists, political opponents, and even certain Republicans. Nevertheless, Trump remains defiant and has just issued threats to impose another 50% tax on Chinese imports while simultaneously permitting negotiations to take place in selective sectors.