Speaking to reporters on his way back to Washington, D.C., Trump dismissed the idea entirely. “We’ve had tremendous success with the Republican Party. The Democrats have lost their way, but a third party is ridiculous,” he said. Trump emphasized that America’s political structure was not built for more than two parties and said Musk’s plan would only add chaos.

The rift marks a dramatic shift in their once-close relationship. Musk had previously been a major Trump supporter, contributing heavily to his campaign and even being appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency. However, tensions began to rise when Musk slammed Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” calling it a “disgusting abomination.” Musk then vowed to back primary challengers against any Republicans who supported the legislation—though it passed with broad GOP backing.

Trump claimed Musk’s change of heart stemmed from the bill’s elimination of electric vehicle tax credits, a move Musk had once supported but later opposed as Tesla’s sales declined. Trump also cited his decision to withdraw the nomination of SpaceX astronaut Jared Isaacman to lead NASA, pointing to Isaacman’s close ties to Musk and prior donations to Democrats.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also weighed in, saying that while Musk’s government reform efforts had been well received, his political ambitions were less welcome. “The boards of his companies likely want him back full-time,” Bessent said. Musk has not yet released a detailed platform for the America Party, and it remains unclear who else may be involved.