WASHINGTON — Despite their contentious breakup, President Donald Trump has stated that Elon Musk may retain the symbolic golden key he was given. Trump emphasized that although he doesn’t retract his actions, he acknowledges Musk’s efforts and the significance of the gesture. The golden key, adorned with the White House emblem, serves as a token of respect and honor from the president.
The rift between Trump and Musk escalated publicly following disagreements over the president’s tax bill projections of $2.5 trillion. Musk, who recently parted ways with his federal government role, engaged in a public dispute with Trump, resulting in a cessation of communication between the two parties. Trump affirmed on June 6 that he had no interest in reconciling with Musk.
In response to Trump’s threats to terminate contracts, Musk retaliated by suggesting an immediate decommissioning of SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. The president, contemplating the financial implications for the country, expressed his willingness to reconsider government contracts with Musk’s enterprises. Trump emphasized that he would evaluate the situation to ensure fairness for both Musk and the nation.
While the media buzzes about the discord between Trump and Musk, the president declared his focus on pressing international matters such as China, Russia, and Iran. Trump, addressing reporters en route to his New Jersey golf club, indicated that his attention was not on Musk but on complex international issues. He also mentioned that he hadn’t decided yet whether to keep his Tesla.
Despite SpaceX’s close collaborations with the Department of Defense and NASA, Trump asserted that the federal government could function without reliance on Musk’s companies. The president underscored the resilience of the U.S. government, stating, “The U.S. can survive without almost anybody, except me.”
(Source: Adapted from USA TODAY article by Joey Garrison)
