U.S. President Donald Trump teased Elon Musk during a speech at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum on November 19, recalling his support for Musk’s business through electric vehicle tax credits.
Trump asked the audience, “Has he ever thanked me properly?” and added, “You are so lucky I’m with you, Elon,” referencing their previously strained ties and Musk’s earlier political criticisms.
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The pair’s tensions began when Musk criticised Trump’s tax and spending plans and announced a new political party, prompting Trump to warn that federal support for Musk’s ventures could be withdrawn.
Hours after the forum, Musk publicly thanked Trump on X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “I would like to thank President Trump for all he has done for America and the world.”
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The event marked their second interaction after drifting apart, highlighting a complex relationship between the tech entrepreneur and the former president over policy and political alignment.
Earlier, Musk briefly led Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, overseeing federal spending cuts before their political alliance fractured, showing how past collaboration has continued to influence their public interactions.