Musk and Trump reunite at Charlie Kirk's memorial service

On September 21, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona, former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk made a notable public appearance at the memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The event marked a significant moment in their relationship, which had experienced a public fallout in the preceding years. Their reunion at this tribute service came several months after a strain developed between them, primarily stemming from Musk's criticisms of Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill', which he condemned as a 'disgusting abomination'. Kirk, known for co-founding Turning Point USA, was remembered at the event following his tragic assassination during his campus tour. As attendees, both Trump and Musk were seen engaging in conversations and eventually sharing a handshake, which hinted at a possible reconciliation after their previous disagreements. Musk had previously endorsed calls for Trump’s impeachment, complicating their bond. Both men took the opportunity to speak fondly of Kirk, emphasizing his potential and influence among the youth. Moreover, Trump's comments prior to the memorial highlighted a time of healing and reflection on Kirk's impact, while Musk expressed that Kirk was 'murdered by the DARK for showing people the light'. The atmosphere of the memorial was described as somber yet filled with admiration for Kirk's legacy. Trump's attendance indicated his ongoing relevance in the political sphere, as many Republicans view him as a key figure leading up to the upcoming elections. This public appearance reflects the complexities of their respective careers and the evolving dynamics of political relationships in the United States. Kirk's assassination and the subsequent memorial service not only honored his contributions but also served as a backdrop for the ongoing dialogue about the state of political alliances in America, especially as they pertain to issues surrounding electric vehicles and governmental spending bills promoted by Trump.