Former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk were seen together at a memorial service for activist Charlie Kirk on 21/9, engaging in casual conversation throughout the event. Trump even appeared to introduce Musk to Dana White, CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

This public appearance marks the first time Trump and Musk have been seen together since their very public disagreement over the "Omnibus Budget Bill and Balancing Act" (OBBBA) a few months prior.

U.S. media outlets interpreted this reunion as a sign of thawing relations between the two, suggesting potential implications for the Republican Party, the MAGA movement, and the tech industry's relationship with the Trump administration.

Former President Trump and Elon Musk converse at the Charlie Kirk memorial service in Arizona on 21/9. Photo: AP

Former President Trump and Elon Musk converse at the Charlie Kirk memorial service in Arizona on 21/9. Photo: AP

At the memorial, Trump expressed his condolences for the passing of the 31-year-old activist, stating that America had lost "one of its brightest lights." He described Kirk as "a giant of his generation, but more than that, a husband, a father, a son, a devoted Christian and patriot."

Musk also expressed that he was "very honored" to be among the tens of thousands attending the memorial service for Kirk.

Musk was once a close ally of Trump, having invested heavily in his campaign and being tasked with reducing government spending. Their relationship soured due to disagreements over the OBBBA, culminating in a public spat on social media on 5/6. Musk later called Trump and expressed regret for some of his posts, admitting they "went too far." Trump dismissed any suggestion that he wanted to harm Musk's businesses after their disagreement, emphasizing his hope for their continued success.

Ngoc Anh (Hill, Fox News, Newsweek)