Trump’s Power Circle of Supporters Is Starting To Crack (2 of 3)

Elon Musk

Elon Musk’s falling out with Trump has been both financial and ideological. Once one of his largest donors and a high-profile member of Trump’s advisory council, Musk has since withdrawn political funding and hinted at launching his own political party, distancing himself from both major parties. His criticisms have been blunt and bold. He’s attacked Trump’s economic policies as “anti-innovation” and even called his latest spending bill a “disgusting abomination.”

Musk’s withdrawal represents more than a personal spat. It’s symbolic of a split between two of the world’s most powerful disruptors currently, each now vying to define the future of American populism on their own terms.

Candace Owens

Candace Owens was once one of Trump’s fiercest defenders, using her platforms to rally Black conservatives and energize younger voters on the right. But in recent months, even she has begun to distance herself.

Owens criticized Trump’s handling of free speech issues, particularly his continued feuds with independent journalists and conservative commentators who question his record. Her perspective echoes growing frustration with the conservative media ecosystem that once boosted Trump’s every move.

Owen’s has also taken issue with Trump’s tone towards his former allies, suggesting that his pattern of attacking anyone who disagrees with him is not a sign of leadership, but a sign of insecurity. While she has not completely disavowed Trump, her pivot away from him marks a sharp shift in loyalty—a sign that even his most vocal champions are now growing wary of being too closely tied to him or his brand.