In a statement from the White House on Thursday, President Donald Trump expressed being "very surprised" and "disappointed" by Elon Musk's recent critiques of his budget bill, which aims to trim taxes and reduce government expenditure. The president's remarks mark his most pointed response following Musk's criticisms, indicating a notable shift in their previously amicable relationship. Speaking with reporters, Trump noted that he was uncertain if their friendship would endure given the circumstances.

The budget plan has come under scrutiny from Musk, alongside some other Republicans, who have labeled it as filled with excessive government spending, or "pork." In a bold response on his social media platform X, Musk emphasized the stakes involved in the budget choices at hand: “Either you get a big and ugly bill or a slim and beautiful bill,” referring directly to the contentious nature of the current proposals.

As this story develops, further details are anticipated which may shed light on the implications of this emerging conflict between two influential figures in American politics and business.

For real-time updates, readers are encouraged to follow reliable news sources, as this situation continues to evolve.