At the memorial service for political activist Charlie Kirk, a rare public encounter took place between business magnate Elon Musk and former U.S. President Donald Trump, marking their first joint appearance since their public disagreements last May. The event provided a unique opportunity for the two figures to meet, as there had been no prior meeting since the dispute, and no official mediation or attempt by Kirk to arrange a reconciliation was announced; the event simply allowed the two to come face-to-face.
Footage showed Musk sitting next to Trump for a brief period, exchanging conversation, shaking hands, and then leaving. Musk also waved to the crowds and spoke with other Republican politicians during the ceremony.
This meeting comes after tensions between the two arose over a spending bill and Musk’s threats to form a new political party, despite his previous support of Trump’s presidential campaign with contributions exceeding $250 million, and his leadership in government efficiency efforts aimed at reducing costs and jobs.
During the memorial, Trump delivered an emotional speech, describing Kirk as a “martyr for American freedom” and blaming the “radical left” for his death. Kirk’s wife, Erika, also spoke, praising his devotion to his family, his Christian principles, and his political efforts through the organization Turning Point USA.
The event turned into a large political gathering attended by tens of thousands of participants, who waved signs such as “Make America Great Again.” Several prominent politicians were also present, including Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
