Trump expresses disappointment in Musk over EV policy criticism

US President Donald Trump is disappointed with Elon Musk. This follows Musk's sharp criticism of a key White House policy.

Their relationship, once cordial and strategic, has now soured.

The dispute centers on Trump's proposed energy and spending bill. This bill aims to eliminate federal tax credits for electric vehicles by 2026. It also imposes a new $250 annual fee on EV owners. Additionally, the bill increases incentives for oil and gas production.

Trump argues that these changes are necessary for American energy independence. However, Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has publicly criticized the proposal. He claims it undermines the electric vehicle sector while supporting fossil fuel companies.

Musk called the bill bloated and short-sighted. He believes it was rushed through without enough debate and shows partisan favoritism.

In response, Trump labeled Musk’s remarks as “disappointing.” He referred to Musk as a “surprise turncoat.” Trump suggested that Musk's outrage comes from potential financial losses for Tesla under the new law.

Trump defended his bill as correcting “lopsided incentives” favoring one industry over others.

This clash has affected markets significantly. Tesla’s stock dropped nearly 9% after the feud began. Investors are closely monitoring whether this public fallout will escalate or stabilize.

Musk was once seen as an informal adviser to Trump. He even hosted a Tesla demonstration on the White House lawn. His growing opposition indicates a major shift in Trump's network of high-profile supporters.