Elon Musk criticized President Trump’s top trade adviser, Peter Navarro, calling him “dumber than a sack of bricks” amid rising tensions over tariffs affecting the global economy.
The conflict escalated after Navarro stated that Musk was not a “car manufacturer” but merely a “car assembler,” claiming that Tesla relies on international parts. Musk defended his company and labeled Navarro a “moron,” suggesting he consult his fictional expert, Ron Vara, a character Navarro has referenced in his economic writings. According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Musk has reportedly lost approximately $31 billion since Trump announced the tariffs.
The ongoing dispute between Navarro and Musk has unfolded on social media, drawing laughter from White House staff rather than concern, as the administration's tariffs have led to significant financial losses globally.
President Trump has yet to comment on the exchange between his advisers, both of whom he respects. Navarro, who played a key role in trade during Trump’s first term, has shown loyalty to the president, even serving time in jail for contempt of Congress related to the January 6 Capitol attack investigation.
This criticism from Musk is noteworthy, given his consistent support for Trump in the past. Musk, who often accompanies Trump on weekends, was absent from the president's recent trip to Florida.
In recent days, Musk has publicly expressed his discontent with Navarro and Trump’s tariff policies, asserting a desire for “zero tariffs” between the U.S. and Europe, countering Trump’s strategy.
Navarro responded to the situation in a CNBC interview, indicating he had not spoken to Musk but downplayed the tensions, stating, “Everything is good with Elon.” He suggested Musk’s remarks were simply the actions of a business leader protecting his interests.
Musk frequently utilizes his X account to address critics, often using provocative language to engage his nearly 219 million followers. He has faced little accountability for his statements and has previously targeted judges attempting to enforce legal accountability on him or his businesses.