WASHINGTON (AP) — The relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has taken a dramatic turn, escalating into a public feud that has captured national attention. On Thursday, Trump expressed his disappointment with Musk during a meeting in the Oval Office, stating that he felt let down by his former ally. This came after Musk criticized Trump’s major tax and spending bill, which the president has dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill.”

Trump did not hold back, suggesting that he might terminate Musk’s government contracts as a way to save money. “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts,” Trump posted on his social media platform. He added, “I was always surprised that Biden didn’t do it!”

The fallout between the two has been swift and intense. Trump lamented their fractured relationship, saying, “I’m very disappointed in Elon. I’ve helped Elon a lot.” He implied that Musk, who recently left his role in the government, might be suffering from what he called “Trump derangement syndrome.”

Musk, who has been vocal on social media, responded in real-time to Trump’s comments. “Whatever,” he wrote, dismissing the president’s remarks. He later added, “Without me, Trump would have lost the election,” highlighting the significant financial support he provided during Trump’s campaign, reportedly over $250 million.

The two had a close relationship, with Musk often seen at Trump’s side during his presidency. However, their alliance began to unravel as Musk publicly criticized Trump’s tax bill, labeling it a “disgusting abomination.”

As Trump spoke to reporters, Musk continued to fire back on social media. “False,” he tweeted, countering Trump’s claims about the bill. He insisted that he had never been shown the legislation and criticized its rapid passage through Congress. Musk also suggested that Trump should eliminate what he called the “MOUNTAIN of DISGUSTING PORK in the bill.”

The tax bill, which aims to provide significant tax cuts, is projected to increase the federal deficit by $2.4 trillion over the next decade and could leave millions without health insurance, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

The public spat between Trump and Musk has raised questions about the future of their relationship and the implications for political alliances within the Republican Party. As both figures continue to exchange barbs, observers are left wondering if this marks the end of a once-promising partnership.