Trump calls Musk ‘80% super genius’ with ‘a little problem’

At a campaign rally in Bullhead City, Arizona, President Donald Trump described Elon Musk as “80% super genius,” joking that the other 20% of the billionaire has “a little problem.”

President Donald Trump described Elon Musk as “80% super genius” during a campaign rally in Bullhead City, Arizona, on Wednesday, adding that the remaining 20% of the billionaire has “a little problem.”

Campaigning for Rep. Andy Biggs, the Republican running against Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, Trump called Hobbs “horrible” and a “dumb person” before turning to Musk. “I know smart people. I deal from Elon down to Katie,” he said. “Elon’s 80% super genius, and 20% he got a little problem, I always tell him. He’s a great guy, though.”

From DOGE to midterm donor

President Donald Trump at an event in June 2026 (file photo)

Musk led the Department of Government Efficiency in the early months of Trump’s second term before leaving in May 2025 and publicly clashing with the president over his signature spending bill. Trump used a similar “80% super genius” line about Musk in September 2025.

Despite their falling-out, Musk has continued to back Republicans. The New York Times reported this week that he has given more than $276 million since July to help the party in the November midterm elections.