According to an Axios report, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk reportedly had a heated confrontation with Donald Trump’s legal adviser Boris Epshteyn during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago last week. The disagreement centered around Epshteyn’s alleged influence over Trump’s Cabinet appointments and accusations of media leaks, which Epshteyn has denied
Musk questions cabinet decisions
Musk, who has contributed over $119 million to Trump’s election campaign, is reportedly frustrated with the qualifications of some candidates endorsed by Epshteyn. As Trump announced 12 Cabinet-level appointments in the two weeks since his victory, tensions within his inner circle have been brewing. Despite this, Musk has been tapped to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency, a non-governmental advisory body focused on cost-cutting measures. This appointment has reportedly caused further friction among Trump’s advisers, many of whom are unhappy with Musk’s vocal criticism of appointments and policies.
Sources suggest that Epshteyn’s role in promoting individuals like Matt Gaetz for attorney general and assembling Trump’s legal team for his New York criminal case has sparked internal disputes. Two lawyers from Epshteyn’s recommended team—Todd Blanche and Emile Bove—have since secured top roles in the Department of Justice, further intensifying claims of overreach.
Musk advocates for treasury role shakeup
In a bold move, Musk has publicly opposed the presumed frontrunner for Treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, suggesting Howard Lutnick instead. “Business-as-usual is driving America bankrupt, so we need to change one way or another,” Musk wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Warning for Musk
An anonymous source close to Trump’s administration cautioned Musk to tread carefully, remarking, “There is only room for one president, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed that he is generating a lot of headlines.” While reports of Musk’s clash with Epshteyn have drawn significant attention, some insiders have downplayed the dispute, claiming the two remain on amicable terms. For now, Musk’s growing influence in Trump’s circle and his outspokenness continue to fuel speculation and controversy.