Donald Trump Takes Subtle Jab at Elon Musk During Commencement Speech

Former President Donald Trump took a surprising swipe at Tesla CEO Elon Musk during his commencement address at the University of Alabama. Speaking to a cheering crowd, Trump claimed that Silicon Valley billionaires—once critical of him—are now “kissing my a–.”

“Elon is so terrific… but they all hated me in my first term. Now they’re kissing my a–. It’s true,” Trump said, stirring laughter from the audience.

His comments came amid a broader speech about breaking the status quo and trusting one’s instincts to achieve success. While the two had a rocky history—clashing in 2022 over Trump’s political future—Musk and Trump have since formed an uneasy alliance.

Despite their recent collaboration, Trump hasn’t shied away from mocking Musk in public.

“Elon won’t go home. I can’t get rid of him. Until I don’t like him,” Trump joked last year.

Now, Musk has reportedly stepped back from his White House role, focusing again on Tesla. Though no longer physically present, White House officials confirm he still consults remotely.