Fake Elon Musk Tweet Linked to Epstein Emails Sparks Outrage

A fabricated screenshot of a tweet allegedly from Elon Musk has caused significant confusion online, coinciding with the release of thousands of pages of emails related to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy began following the US House Oversight Committee’s release of approximately 20,000 pages of emails on November 12, 2023.

Among the emails was a 2018 correspondence between the Epstein brothers that suggested consulting Donald Trump‘s adviser, Steve Bannon, regarding claims that Russian president Vladimir Putin possessed compromising photographs of Trump. As discussions surrounding this email intensified, a fabricated screenshot purportedly showing Musk linking Trump to the term “Bubba” began circulating on social media platforms.

Many users questioned the authenticity of the screenshot, even seeking verification from X‘s artificial intelligence engine, Grok. The AI confirmed that the tweet was indeed false, and there is currently no evidence that Musk made such an allegation. No reputable media outlets have reported on the matter, further fueling skepticism.

Following his resignation from the Trump administration, where he served as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk has been vocal in his criticism of Trump’s policies. He has previously expressed concerns about the release of Epstein’s files, suggesting that Trump’s inaction raises doubts about his integrity. In a now-deleted post on X, Musk insinuated that Trump was mentioned in the Epstein files, stating, “How can people be expected to have faith in Trump if he won’t release the Epstein files?”

The White House has dismissed Musk’s claims, with President Biden calling him “a man who has lost his mind.” David Schoen, Epstein’s former lawyer, has stated that his client possessed no incriminating information about Trump prior to his death. Musk has joined calls from lawmakers urging the release of all remaining Epstein files, emphasizing the need for transparency.

Political Reactions and Calls for Accountability

While the investigation into Epstein’s activities continues, some documents remain sealed due to ongoing legal procedures meant to protect victims. The White House has refrained from committing to whether Trump will meet with Epstein’s victims following the email release. Representative Ro Khanna, a Democratic lawmaker, indicated that efforts to release the remaining files are not directly linked to Trump. He plans to ask Trump to meet with Epstein victims at the White House, asserting, “It is not about Donald Trump. I don’t even know how involved Trump was.”

Khanna emphasized the need for accountability and expressed concern that many individuals involved in the Epstein scandal must be held responsible. He commented on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” stating, “There are a lot of people who are involved who have to be held accountable.”

As many Epstein victims prepare to be in Washington, D.C., on November 18, 2023, the White House has faced accusations of politicizing the issue, with a spokesperson asserting that the administration is merely pretending to care about the victims while attempting to score political points against Trump.

The ongoing situation highlights the complexities surrounding the Epstein case and the intertwined political narratives that continue to develop as new information emerges. As discussions unfold, the public remains vigilant, seeking clarity amid the confusion.