Trump says former ally Elon Musk is ‘80% super genius and 20% problems’, predicts his return to GOP

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has broken his silence on his fractured relationship with Elon Musk, offering a mix of criticism and praise in a new interview.

Calling the billionaire “80% super-genius” and “20% problems,” Trump suggested their falling out may not be permanent, hinting that Musk could eventually return to the Republican fold.

Donald Trump praises Elon Musk intellect but highlights flaws

In an interview with 'The Scott Jennings Show' on Wednesday, September 3, Trump reflected on his split with Musk, who had served as an adviser in his administration. “He’s got 80% super-genius, and then 20% he’s got some problems,” Trump said. “When he works out the 20% he’ll be great.”

The president added, “Musk got off the reservation incorrectly, and... he wished he didn’t do it.” Despite acknowledging their conflict, Trump insisted he continues to hold Musk in high regard: “But I like him, I always liked him, I like him now. He’s a good person.”

Trump also emphasized Musk’s political direction, remarking, “I don’t think he has a choice. So what’s he going to do, he’s gonna go with the radical left lunatics? They’re lunatics. I don’t think he has a choice. He’s a man of common sense, he’s a good man.”

Social media reacts to Trump’s ‘80% super-genius’ remark on Elon Musk

Trump’s comments about Musk sparked a wave of reactions online, with supporters and critics alike weighing in.

One user applauded JD Vance for welcoming Musk back into the GOP fold, posting, “I am glad JD Vance invited @ElonMusk back!”

Others latched onto Trump’s phrasing, with one writing, “‘80% super genius’ is the most Trump compliment ever LMAOOO.”

Skepticism also surfaced, as another commenter declared, “Problem is, Elon will never work out the 20%. I can't trust him again. I trust the BEST PRESIDENT EVER 1,000% of the time.”

Many highlighted Trump’s enduring respect for the Tesla CEO despite their feud. “Yes that’s always been clear DJT likes Elon as a person, friend and patriot,” one post read.

Nostalgia crept in too. “I miss those two!! They deserve to be with each other! I want to see lil X and Elon back at the White House! I remember the good old days when Elon would literally play video games at the White House, for testing of course! Those were the good times!”

Some even analyzed Trump’s choice of words: “I love that he uses the word reservation, it makes me think of families protecting each other and protecting the tribe all of us.”

Others predicted the internet frenzy: “When Trump praises Musk, you know the timeline is about to explode.”

Fallout over Elon Musk Epstein post

The rift between Trump and Musk escalated in June after Musk attacked Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” spending plan, calling it “a disgusting abomination.” Shortly after stepping down from his role in the administration, Musk posted on his X platform, “Trump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.” The post was later deleted, but the damage caused a major rupture.

At the time, Trump said his relationship with Musk was likely over, noting, “I would assume so, yeah.” He also warned Musk—who had donated more than $250 million to Trump’s presidential campaign—against financially supporting Democrats. “He’ll have to pay very serious consequences if he does that,” Trump cautioned.

Allies and rivals weigh in on Donald Trump–Elon Musk split

The Trump-Musk fallout has divided allies and commentators. MAGA-aligned radio host Scott Jennings called both men “two brilliant men and great Americans,” adding, “I, like millions of others, really would love to see them get the band back together soon.”

Podcaster Joe Rogan also weighed in after Musk’s controversial remarks, reacting mid-interview to the billionaire’s attacks on Trump. Meanwhile, rivals such as former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Eric Adams seized on the moment to mock the fracture.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.