A major public dispute has erupted between President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, drawing widespread attention.
The conflict intensified when Musk claimed, without providing evidence, that Trump’s name appears in unreleased documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Musk suggested that this alleged connection is why certain Epstein files have not been made public. In response, Trump dismissed the claims, stating he had severed ties with Epstein long before his legal troubles and had never been involved in any wrongdoing. The White House labeled Musk’s allegations as baseless and unfortunate.
The feud between the two escalated following Musk’s criticism of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a legislative package aimed at tax reforms and increased spending on military and border security.
Musk opposed the bill, arguing it would significantly increase the national debt and eliminate subsidies for electric vehicles.
Trump retaliated by suggesting the termination of federal contracts and subsidies to Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX.
He also mentioned the possibility of selling his Tesla vehicle, which he had previously purchased to show support for Musk’s ventures.
Despite the heated exchanges, there have been signs of a potential reconciliation. Musk responded positively to a call for peace from investor Bill Ackman, indicating a willingness to mend the relationship. However, Trump has expressed no interest in speaking with Musk at this time.
The dispute has had economic repercussions, with Tesla’s stock experiencing significant fluctuations amid the controversy. Political figures and the public continue to closely monitor the situation as the fallout between these two influential individuals unfolds.