Trump slams former ally Elon Musk's 'America Party' as 'ridiculous'

Washington (Web Desk): Donald Trump has lashed out at Elon Musk following the billionaire’s announcement of a new political movement, the "America Party." Once allies with shared goals around government reform, Trump and Musk now appear to be on opposing paths as tensions escalate between them.

In a post on social media, Trump criticized Musk’s recent behavior, claiming the tech mogul has "gone completely off the rails" and referring to him as a "train wreck." The former president was particularly dismissive of Musk’s attempt to launch a third political party, suggesting it was doomed from the start. Speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One on Sunday, Trump said, "Starting a third party is ridiculous.

The United States has always had a two-party system, and introducing a third only confuses the process."

Musk unveiled the formation of the America Party a day earlier on his platform X, presenting it as an answer to what he sees as a deeply flawed and unrepresentative political system. He argued that both major parties have failed the American people and operate more as a single establishment interested in preserving power rather than serving the public.

The announcement followed a high-traffic Independence Day poll Musk conducted online, where over 1.2 million users participated. Of those, more than 65% expressed support for a new political alternative.

Following the poll, Musk declared that the results showed a clear public mandate. He announced the party’s creation as a response to what he called a “one-party system” that has led to waste, corruption, and a loss of personal freedom.

Although Musk did not reveal plans to run for president or endorse a candidate at this time, he said the party’s initial focus would be on reshaping Congress by targeting key House and Senate races in the upcoming cycle.

The fallout between Trump and Musk appears to stem from growing ideological differences, particularly in response to a recent bill signed by Trump that boosts funding for national defense, border enforcement, and traditional energy projects, while cutting federal spending on healthcare and food assistance. Musk has publicly criticized the move, framing it as an example of misplaced priorities and government waste.

Trump also pushed back on Musk’s previously suggested electric vehicle (EV) mandate, claiming it would have forced consumers into making choices they weren’t ready for. “People should have the freedom to choose what they drive—whether it’s gas, hybrid, or electric,” Trump said, pointing to the mandate’s removal as a victory for consumer freedom.

This split between two of the most influential figures on the American right suggests a possible fracture within the broader conservative movement. Trump remains a dominant force within the Republican Party, while Musk’s new initiative could attract voters frustrated with both parties, particularly those who lean independent or favor anti-establishment politics.

Though third parties have historically struggled to gain traction in the US, Musk’s visibility and influence could give the America Party a unique platform as the political landscape evolves.