What is the story about?
As scrutiny over the Epstein files continues, Elon Musk has publicly addressed the matter after his name appeared in the newly released documents. Taking to X, Musk said he had actively supported the release of the files and welcomed the disclosure.
The Tesla CEO claimed that no one pushed harder for the release than he did, making the comments hours after the US Department of Justice published over three million pages of material on Friday.
The released documents reportedly show discussions between Musk and Epstein about travel plans to Little St James. In an email dated 13 December 2013, Musk wrote: “Will be in the BVI/St Bart’s area over the holidays. Is there a good time to visit?” Epstein replied: “any day 1st–8th. play it by ear if you want. always space for you.”
Several emails followed, with the two tentatively agreeing on 2 January for a possible visit. The exchange concluded with Epstein informing Musk that he would remain in New York, expressing regret that they could not meet.
In response to posts on X, Musk stressed that he “had very little correspondence with Epstein” and had “declined repeated invitations to go to his island or fly on his ‘Lolita Express.’”
He added that he was aware some of the emails could be misinterpreted and used by critics to tarnish his reputation.
“I don’t care about that,” Musk said. “What I do care about is that we at least attempt to prosecute those who committed serious crimes with Epstein, especially regarding the heinous exploitation of underage girls.”
In June 2025, after a public fallout with US President Donald Trump, Musk had claimed on X that the Epstein files were being withheld because Trump’s name appeared in them. He later deleted the post without explanation, and the two have since reconciled.
While Trump’s long-standing ties with Epstein are well documented, he has not been accused of wrongdoing by any victims. In the newly released files, Trump’s name appears thousands of times, including in unverified tips sent to the FBI and in Epstein’s flight logs.
The Tesla CEO claimed that no one pushed harder for the release than he did, making the comments hours after the US Department of Justice published over three million pages of material on Friday.
Emails with Epstein
The released documents reportedly show discussions between Musk and Epstein about travel plans to Little St James. In an email dated 13 December 2013, Musk wrote: “Will be in the BVI/St Bart’s area over the holidays. Is there a good time to visit?” Epstein replied: “any day 1st–8th. play it by ear if you want. always space for you.”
Several emails followed, with the two tentatively agreeing on 2 January for a possible visit. The exchange concluded with Epstein informing Musk that he would remain in New York, expressing regret that they could not meet.
Musk clarifies limited interaction
In response to posts on X, Musk stressed that he “had very little correspondence with Epstein” and had “declined repeated invitations to go to his island or fly on his ‘Lolita Express.’”
He added that he was aware some of the emails could be misinterpreted and used by critics to tarnish his reputation.
“I don’t care about that,” Musk said. “What I do care about is that we at least attempt to prosecute those who committed serious crimes with Epstein, especially regarding the heinous exploitation of underage girls.”
Past remarks on file delays
In June 2025, after a public fallout with US President Donald Trump, Musk had claimed on X that the Epstein files were being withheld because Trump’s name appeared in them. He later deleted the post without explanation, and the two have since reconciled.
While Trump’s long-standing ties with Epstein are well documented, he has not been accused of wrongdoing by any victims. In the newly released files, Trump’s name appears thousands of times, including in unverified tips sent to the FBI and in Epstein’s flight logs.
