Donald Trump and Elon Musk were seen together at the Charlie Kirk memorial service in Glendale, Arizona. They shook hands, chatted briefly, and were captured in photos and videos shared via White House and Musk’s social media accounts.
The event was widely covered because it’s the first public interaction between them since their very public fallout earlier this year.
Background on the Feud:
Earlier in 2025, Musk served as head of Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Then he criticised Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” a major legislative effort, calling it fiscally irresponsible.
Things escalated: Musk made accusations on social media (including about Jeffrey Epstein), and Trump responded with strong warnings, at one point threatening government contracts and even suggesting possible deportation.
Why This Moment Matters:
The handshake and interaction could signal a thawing in their relationship. It doesn’t necessarily mean full reconciliation, but it’s widely seen as a symbolic first step.
Their reunion “For Charlie,” as Musk captioned his post, suggests mutual respect for shared values or figures even amid political conflict.
What to Watch Going Forward:
- Public Statements — Will either side officially soften their criticisms or express regret? Any joint appearances beyond memorials would be telling.
- Policy & Contracts — Musk’s companies (Tesla, SpaceX) could possibly regain smoother access to federal contracts if relations improve.
- Political Strategy — Could Musk’s role in GOP-aligned policy or political ventures shift back toward alignment with Trump?
- Media and Messaging — How each frames this as a reconciliation, if at all, could matter for public perception, especially for Tesla, political donors, and conservative circles.
This handshake in Arizona doesn’t erase everything, but it does open the door. It’s a signal more than a solution — and now everyone will be watching closely to see whether this was just a moment of gesture or the beginning of a return to alliance.
