Elon Musk has reportedly clashed with Donald Trump’s legal adviser Boris Epshteyn during a heated confrontation at Mar-a-Lago last week.
The billionaire entrepreneur and Epshteyn had a “major blow-up” during dinner in front of other guests, according to US news site Axios.
The dispute centred around Cabinet picks for Trump’s administration, with Musk allegedly accusing Epshteyn of leaking information to the media.
During the confrontation, Epshteyn is believed to have responded to Musk’s accusations by saying: “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Musk was with Trump and his family members at their election night party at Mar-a-Lago last weekGetty
However, one source sought to downplay the incident, indicating that the pair maintain a good relationship and have frequently shared meals together.
A source close to Trump’s inner circle explained the dynamics: “Winning helped make everything better for a bit but this is still politics and there are always scores to settle and axes to grind.”
Musk’s growing closeness to Trump has reportedly caused friction with other members of the former president’s circle.
The tech mogul has taken an active role in the Cabinet selection process, particularly regarding the Treasury Department position.
Musk called for increased public involvement in the decision-making process, posting on social media: “Would be interesting to hear more people weigh in on this for @realDonaldTrump to consider feedback.”
He subsequently endorsed Howard Lutnick, the chief executive of Cantor Fitzgerald and co-chairman of Trump’s transition team, for the Treasury position.
Trump has already announced several key Cabinet appointments in recent days.
Elon Musk’s growing closeness to Trump has reportedly caused friction with other members of the former president’s circle
Reuters
Florida Senator Marco Rubio has been selected as Secretary of State, whilst former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz has been named as attorney general.
However, several crucial positions remain unfilled in the administration.
The president-elect still needs to appoint heads for both the Education and Labour Departments, among other important positions.