Trump–Musk Feud Intensifies

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer 

A high-profile clash between former President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has entered a new phase, combining financial threats over campaign funding with Musk’s contemplation of a centrist third-party, tentatively called the “America Party.” 

Trump’s Warning: “Very Serious Consequences” 

In a blistering interview with NBC News, Trump leveled a stark warning at Musk, stating he would face “very serious consequences” if he funds Democratic candidates, especially those poised to challenge Republicans who back Trump’s signature budget and tax legislation. When  addressing Musk's possibility of promoting a Democrat, Trump stated “If he does, he’ll have to pay the consequences.” Emphasizing his disapproval of Musk’s criticism of the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Trump portrayed Musk as “disrespectful to the Office of the President” and asserted he has no intention of reconciling. According to Reuters, Trump also noted the relationship is effectively over: “I would assume so, yeah,” and dismissed any chances to renew ties. Trump’s words comes after Musk called the budget bill “an abomination,” citing concerns over excessive federal spending on deficits, border enforcement, and green energy incentives 

Musk Floats “America Party” to Fill Political Void 

Amid the feud, Musk has publicly flirted with founding a new political party, the “America Party,” aimed at representing the estimated 80% of Americans he considers politically unaligned. He polled his 220 million-plus followers on X, with nearly 80% supporting the idea. Musk hinted the party could emerge from his existing America PAC, which, as a Super PAC, has funded Republican candidates with nearly $300 million in 2024. Establishing a formal political party would entail navigating complex ballot laws and statutory limits, including donation caps to recognized political parties.

What’s at Stake 

For Trump, Musk’s potential shift could undermine the Republican unity he claims to have solidified. Threatening Musk’s involvement in Democratic funding might be intended to deter any defections.
For Musk, launching a new party or significantly altering his political sponsorship marks a major pivot, from formerly a major GOP backer to potentially leading a centrist insurgency .
For U.S. politics, this might signal emerging fractures within traditional partisan coalitions, setting the stage either for a transformative shift toward a third party or for intensifying partisan realignment dynamics as the 2026 midterms approach. 

Next Steps 

Trump’s recent interviews intensified interest in his ability to influence funding and federal contracts if Musk shifts allegiance. Musk’s third party concept has triggered buzz, though most political analysts deem the venture nascent and uncertain. Third parties have not always been successful in American politics.  What was once a mutually beneficial alliance has unraveled on multiple fronts, from financial pressure to political realignment. With Trump threatening retribution and Musk considering a third-party challenge, both influencers are redefining their relationship, and potentially shifting the landscape of American political engagement.