New Delhi: Tesla CEO and tech-mogul Elon Musk has claimed that US President Donald Trump’s name appears in the highly sensitive Jeffrey Epstein files, suggesting this as the reason behind the secrecy surrounding the investigation. Musk made the assertion in a series of posts on his social media platform X. This marks a sharp escalation in an already bitter public feud between the once close associates.
“Time to drop the really big bomb: @realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public. Have a nice day, DJT!” Musk wrote. He followed this with another post, “Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out.” Taking a step further, Musk endorsed calls for Trump’s impeachment, saying the US President should be replaced by Vice President JD Vance.
Stark shift from earlier camaraderie
The row between Musk and Trump marks a stark shift from their earlier camaraderie. Musk had previously been seen as a major Trump backer during the 2024 campaign, contributing financially and using his platform to amplify pro-Trump messages. However, tensions have flared in recent weeks over Trump’s controversial “One Big Beautiful Bill”—legislation Musk has fiercely criticised for threatening the electric vehicle industry.
Their relationship soured further when Trump, during a press conference, said he was “disappointed” with Musk and accused him of going “crazy” after being cut off from influence in Washington. Musk responded by accusing Trump of “ingratitude”, claiming his support was crucial in securing Trump’s re-election.
The Epstein files
The Epstein files refer to documents and evidence collected in the investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died by suicide in jail in 2019 while facing charges of sex trafficking minors. While some documents have been released, many remain sealed, fuelling suspicions of a cover-up to protect powerful people.
Musk’s claims—though unsubstantiated—have reignited calls for the full release of the Epstein files. Responding to Musk’s allegations, Democrats and other people have called for the release of files. A post on X by Democrats read: “KILL THE BILL AND RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES!”
