Tesla CEO Elon Musk has publicly disagreed with Peter Navarro, President Donald Trump’s top trade advisor, over tariffs and free trade policies. In a post on X, Musk described Navarro’s PhD in economics from Harvard as “a bad thing,” implying that academic credentials are not necessary for success. Navarro, who earned his master’s and doctorate in economics from Harvard, has taken a pro-tariff stance.
The disagreement escalated after Trump imposed tariffs on over 180 countries, with the baseline rate starting at 10%. Navarro believes these tariffs will help bring manufacturing back to the US, while Musk advocates for a “zero-tariff situation” and a “free trade zone” between Europe and the US. Musk has also expressed support for allowing more immigration between Europe and the US.
The clash highlights Musk’s differing views on trade policy from Trump’s inner circle. Despite being a major supporter of Trump, Musk is now taking a more independent stance on tariffs and free trade. The White House had stated that Musk would leave his role as a special government employee after completing his work with the DOGE office.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-tariff-rift-peter-navarro-getting-ugly-2025-4