Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump and Musk Clash Over Pentagon Briefing Fallout

4/19/2025

41 6

Left

Trump vs. Musk Tensions

Tensions are rising between Trump and Musk after Trump expressed outrage over Musk's attendance at a Pentagon briefing on China, questioning his connections to Beijing. In the fallout, two Pentagon officials faced suspension for leaking information, while Musk threatened legal action, casting doubt on his access to sensitive data.

Center

Musk's Influence Wanes

Elon Musk's grip on the Trump administration is slipping as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent ousts IRS Commissioner Gary Shapley, a Musk ally. This shake-up comes after Musk's sharp criticism of Bessent, intensifying their feud. Amid this chaos, the IRS has halted layoffs, highlighting the turbulence plaguing Trump's second term.

1 of 2

Trump vs. Musk Tensions

Tensions are rising between Trump and Musk after Trump expressed outrage over Musk's attendance at a Pentagon briefing on China, questioning his connections to Beijing. In the fallout, two Pentagon officials faced suspension for leaking information, while Musk threatened legal action, casting doubt on his access to sensitive data.

1 / 2