Tensions between tech billionaire Elon Musk and former U.S. President Donald Trump have reached a boiling point, prompting reports that White House aides may attempt to mediate the feud on Friday. Sources told Fox News that while a direct conversation between Musk and Trump is unlikely today, members of the Trump team could reach out to Musk in a bid to defuse the situation.
The public spat escalated after Musk alleged on X (formerly Twitter) that Trump appears in sealed Jeffrey Epstein court documents — a claim that reignited political and media firestorms. “@RealDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files,” Musk posted. “That is the real reason they have not been made public. Have a nice day, DJT!” He followed up with, “Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out.”
The White House has distanced itself from the dispute. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described Musk’s comments as “an unfortunate episode” rooted in his dissatisfaction with the administration’s latest legislation, nicknamed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Leavitt said the president remains focused on policy, not personal drama.
Trump, for his part, fired back on Truth Social, accusing Musk of lashing out after losing influence over electric vehicle mandates. “Elon was ‘wearing thin,’ I asked him to leave,” Trump wrote. “I took away his EV Mandate that forced everyone to buy Electric Cars… and he just went CRAZY!”
Trump also took aim at Musk’s financial ties to the government: “The easiest way to save money in our Budget… is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts.”
Amid the feud, a red Tesla reportedly purchased by Trump during a White House EV demonstration remains parked near the premises, with reports suggesting it may soon be given away or sold.
The fallout marks a significant break between two high-profile figures whose previous interactions were seen as occasionally aligned on business and technology fronts.
