Welcome to the 12:30 report. You can stay informed by signing up below.
Happy Friday and Happy National Donuts Day! There are some great deals to grab free donuts today, so make sure to check them out. And if you’re around DC, don’t forget about the Worldpride parade happening tomorrow.
Today’s Highlights:
- Musk’s subtle hint at reconciliation
- Trump: “Not in the mood for a chat”
- Rumors of Tesla sales
- Top social media highlights from the feud
- A ball at a late-night show
- Bonus: Strong May Jobs Report
🥊 Morning Updates
The Recent Rift:
As many of you probably know, President Trump and Elon Musk ended their relationship on somewhat sour terms on social media recently. An AP report really captured the essence of the situation.
So what’s the status now?
Musk recently extended a small olive branch by responding “true” to a post on X that suggested a peace gesture. But, Trump doesn’t seem particularly eager to engage. There’s been some chatter about a potential conversation today, but Trump has pushed back against those claims during various interviews.
He told ABC News, “I’m not particularly interested in talking to Elon Musk.” He even referred to Musk as someone who “lost his heart.” Trump reiterated to CNN that he hasn’t given Musk much thought, suggesting that Musk is the one with the issues.
As for Musk’s recent criticisms of Trump’s legislative efforts, Trump remarked to the New York Post that Musk “knew all about the bill.”
During a CBS News chat, Trump preferred to discuss economic issues rather than dwell on his clash with Musk.
It’s clear from Trump’s recent media rounds that the White House wants to move on from this messy feud.
Flashback: Just last week, Trump and Musk held a somewhat amicable farewell event in the Oval Office, marking the end of the mask era in his administration, complete with Trump presenting Musk with the gold key to the White House. They had pledged to stay connected.
Moving On: There are plans for Trump to sell or distribute the Tesla electric vehicles he acquired while in office.
It’s a bit like that lyric, “And take your cat and leave my sweater…”
What about Tesla’s Stock? The company faced a decline on Thursday, dropping a significant $152 billion in market value, though there seems to be a slight recovery today.
💡 How did we get here?: It’s been a year since Trump and Musk became close allies. Musk supported Trump after his initial campaign, securing a prominent role during his second term, even staying overnight at the White House. But as Trump’s legislative agenda slowed down, tensions grew, driven by Musk criticizing “big and beautiful” policies and former EV tax credits.
In Summary: A disagreement over budget policies has escalated into a full-blown feud, complete with Musk referencing controversial files and Trump threatening to cut contracts with Musk’s companies.
Social Media Takes:
X’s farewell post about their friendship drew a lot of attention. Some comments were quite humorous and even made me chuckle.
Here are a few notable reactions:
@annie_wu_22: “If they fight, let the Secretary of Education oversee it.” Fun fact: She co-founded WWE.
Andy Cohen from Bravo: “Let me host a reunion!”
Dunmac Laughlin from National Review: “This feels like Marco Rubio acting as CEO of Tesla and SpaceX.”
@itsmattslaw: “Seems like we’re getting secret insider tweets.”
@Anothercohen: “This is like Drake vs. Kendrick for the GOP.”
For a laugh: “Even during chaotic times, we can have moments of light-heartedness.”
➤ Late Night Reactions:
Check out segments from shows like Comedy Central’s “Daily Show,” ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and NBC’s “Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon…”
➤ Other Reactions Worth Noting:
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “Oh, so it’s like that?”
Jesse Watters from Fox News: Speculated that Musk and Trump might just be blowing off steam.
A former GOP aide: Commented on Musk’s influence and motives in government policy. “He’s not just a loyal conservative; he’s looking out for his interests.”
And finally: A throwback from Axios reminded us of Musk’s affection for Trump.
📊 Other News
What’s Happening in the White House:
The May Jobs Report was released, indicating a gain of 139,000 jobs and holding the unemployment rate at 4.2%. This aligns fairly with economists’ expectations, particularly amid economic uncertainty.
Healthcare and hospitality showed significant job growth, while sectors like construction were relatively stagnant.
➤ Senate Developments:
Things are a bit rocky for Trump’s agenda in the Senate at the moment.
Legal Developments:
This morning, the Trump administration asked the Supreme Court for permission to proceed with actions related to education that had been previously blocked by lower courts.
Remember: This has been an ongoing issue for nearly a year.
Upcoming Events:
Trump is spending his day in Washington before heading to New Jersey.
1:30 PM: Trump signs an executive order.
2:00 PM: An oath ceremony for the new Secretary of the Navy.
3:00 PM: Departure for Bedminster, New Jersey, for the weekend.
Saturday at 9:30 PM: UFC event in Prudential Center.
Sunday morning: Senators Lankford and Booker will appear on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
🍩 Celebrate National Donuts Day! Enjoy free donuts from places like Dunkin’ and Krispy Kreme. Check out the offers across the nation.
Movie Alert: The first official trailer for “Wicked: For Good” was released this week, with the second half hitting theaters this November.
👋 Lastly…
For some light-hearted fun, watch what happens when a woman trains a dog.
If you missed yesterday’s newsletter, catch up here. I love to hear from you, so feel free to send tips and feedback!
