Musk had previously resigned from his role as a special government employee within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), citing his desire to focus on his business ventures. The feud between the two prominent figures escalated after Musk appeared to criticize Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’

Musk’s now-deleted tweet on X read, “Donald Trump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public. Have a nice day, DJT!” Following the deletion, Musk hinted at a possible truce in response to a post by American Fund Manager Bill Ackman, who advocated for peace between the two. Musk responded, “ You’s are not wrong.”

The online clash occurred at a critical juncture for Trump’s proposed ‘big, beautiful bill,’ which includes significant tax cuts and increased military spending. The public exchange of criticism and allegations marked a dramatic turn in their already strained relationship, reaching a peak with Musk’s explosive claims regarding Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. Just before the escalation, Musk had stepped down from his position at the Department of Government Efficiency.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance expressed support for Trump amidst the public conflict, stating, “President Trump has done more than any person in my lifetime to earn the trust of the movement he leads. I’m proud to stand beside him.”