Tensions have resurfaced between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and U.S. President Donald Trump, centered around the controversial Epstein files. Musk has publicly questioned Trump’s decision to withhold documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. This dispute marks a renewed clash between the two influential figures, who had previously appeared to reconcile their differences.

Musk’s criticism comes amid heightened public interest in the Epstein files, which have long been shrouded in secrecy. The billionaire entrepreneur has pledged to prioritize exposing the scandal if his newly established America Party gains political traction. On social media platform X, Musk questioned how the public could trust Trump if he refused to release these documents. His post sparked widespread discussion and was followed by a commitment to make the issue a “high priority” for his party.

The controversy intensified following a recent memo from the Justice Department (DOJ), which stated that further disclosure of Epstein-related materials was neither appropriate nor warranted. Despite an extensive review of items seized from Epstein’s properties, no client list was discovered, according to the DOJ. This announcement has drawn criticism from various quarters, including conspiracy theorists like Alex Jones, who mocked the DOJ’s stance.

During a White House press conference, Trump avoided addressing questions about the Epstein client list. Attorney General Pam Bondi also dismissed inquiries, reiterating that Epstein had committed suicide. Both Trump and Bondi had previously vowed to uncover Epstein’s network, with Bondi claiming earlier this year that the client list was in her possession.

The DOJ’s statement has reignited debates and skepticism, with Musk sharing a meme suggesting disbelief in the existence of an Epstein list. This incident is part of a broader fallout between Musk and Trump, who once seemed aligned on corporate-political matters. Their relationship soured over disagreements on policy issues, including Trump’s tax and spending bill.

In response to Musk’s political ambitions with the America Party, Trump dismissed the idea of a third party as “ridiculous,” citing historical failures of such endeavors. He further criticized Musk personally, describing him as a “TRAIN WRECK” who had “gone off the rails.”