As tensions flared between the two powerhouse figures in American politics, Donald Trump and Elon Musk, grassroots leaders and Arizona conservatives urged focus and cooperation, reminding Republicans what is truly at stake.
The political alliance between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk has soured dramatically, resulting in a public feud that has left many stunned. The discord centers around Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a legislative package that Musk vehemently argues will explode the deficit.
Musk criticized the bill as a “massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill” and labeled it a “disgusting abomination.” He expressed concern over its potential to increase the federal deficit by $2.4 trillion over a decade. In response, Trump accused Musk of suffering from “Trump derangement syndrome” and threatened to revoke government subsidies and contracts benefiting Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX. The feud dragged on for hours on X, leaving Arizona politicians stunned.
Merissa Hamilton, a well-known grassroots activist, captured the sentiment of many with a post after the conflict dragged on for hours.
Former state Senate candidate Josh Barnett, who unsuccessfully challenged Shawnna Bolick in the Republican primary, said, “Stop picking sides like we are divided. It’s one argument, one debate. I refuse to pick Elon over Trump or vice versa. We are all on the same team.”
Charlie Kirk, head of Turning Point, made several unifying posts yesterday. He said, “It’s a tough thing to watch this public feud, but I actually think they’re going to reconcile at some point because I’d like to believe they both want the same things.”
U.S. Congressional District 5 candidate Travis Grantham simply said, “I miss the good old days…😢”
Kari Lake, Trump’s Senior Advisor for the U.S. Agency for Global Media and former AZ gubernatorial candidate, posted, “It’s good to let off a little steam every once in a while. Do you agree? MAGA Forever.”
The Trump-Musk clash lit up X, thrilling the media and the left, but leaving many in the movement scratching their heads. But as the dust settles, it’s clear—this wasn’t just about a bill. It was a reminder that priorities can get blurred.
Many on the right expressed hope this was just a moment, not a complete meltdown, which only time will tell. But in the interim, Arizona Republicans are spreading the message that unity is crucial, even when individuals disagree.