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Trump vs Musk: Tech billionaire Elon Musk has taken a new jibe at US President Donald Trump, asking him to "just release the files" on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, triggering a fresh political controversy ahead of the important 2026 midterm elections. Musk's statement followed Trump, in a message on his Truth Social site, asking his followers to refrain from criticizing his government regarding the Epstein case. In his message, Trump had claimed that previous presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Democratic leader Hillary Clinton were to blame for "creating" the so-called Epstein files. Reacting quickly, Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter), "Seriously. He mentioned 'Epstein' six times while instructing everyone to desist from talking about Epstein. Simply release the files as vowed."

Former Allies Turn Foes

Formerly a close Trump supporter, Elon Musk served as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for a short time during Trump's last term. Relations deteriorated after Musk denounced Trump's signature tax overhaul legislation and government spending campaign, while Trump announced plans to terminate Musk's profitable federal contracts. The exchange escalated after Musk claimed the Epstein files were being held back because the President's name was included in them something he later removed, conceding he had "gone too far."

Trump recently came to the defense of Attorney General Pam Bondi and labeled her "fantastic," and criticized his predecessors as being responsible for the contentious records. "LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!" Trump posted. Trump also encouraged his MAGA faction to only concentrate on other matters and not Epstein, stating, "Let's keep our country the hottest in the world and not waste time on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about."

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Pressure Grows over 'Client List' Allegations

The scandal has intensified following the release of a memo by the Justice Department and FBI stating Epstein died as a suicide and that there was no "client list" or other evidence of complicity by other prominent individuals. It has led to a u-turn over earlier public assurances by Attorney General Bondi that she had a list of Epstein's contacts on her desk ready for inspection. The seeming u-turn has infuriated a number of far-right celebrities and Trump supporters themselves. Prominent conservative activist Laura Loomer has called for Bondi’s dismissal, labelling her “an embarrassment,” while former White House strategist Steve Bannon warned Republicans could lose up to 40 seats in the House during the 2026 midterms due to mishandling of the Epstein revelations.

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The Epstein file delay is now a top flashpoint in US politics, with Musk's latest move adding to Trump's troubles. Most of the Republican base thinks "Deep State" players are covering up powerful names associated with Epstein's suspected network. With the 2026 midterm elections loomng on the horizon, the still-pending Epstein scandal might become a top campaign issue, potentially transforming the power balance in Washington.