Tensions within President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team reached a boiling point during a heated confrontation between Elon Musk and Boris Epshteyn at Mar-a-Lago, according to an Axios report. The clash underscores growing friction between Musk and Trump’s long-time aides, as the billionaire’s influence within the transition process expands.

The altercation, described by insiders as a “massive blowup,” occurred during a private dinner at Trump’s Florida estate. Musk, co-leader of the unofficial Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and a close Trump ally, reportedly criticized Epshteyn’s controversial cabinet recommendations, including his suggestion of Representative Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Musk questioned the qualifications of Epshteyn’s picks and accused him of leaking sensitive personnel discussions to the media. Epshteyn fired back, challenging Musk’s grasp of the complexities involved in the decisions.

The confrontation disrupted the otherwise controlled transition process, which has been carefully orchestrated to prepare for Trump’s second term. Sources described the fallout as a “huge explosion” that had been brewing for weeks.

Rising Tensions in Trump’s Inner Circle

For Trump loyalists, the confrontation was inevitable. Epshteyn, a senior adviser, has been instrumental in managing Trump’s cabinet picks and coordinating legal defenses for the former president’s ongoing criminal cases. His influence, however, appears to be clashing with Musk’s increasing role in shaping the administration’s direction.

Musk’s involvement extends far beyond his position as co-chief of DOGE, where he collaborates with entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy on efficiency reforms. His recommendations, such as advocating for Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, as treasury secretary, have often directly opposed Epshteyn’s preferences.

Musk’s growing presence at Mar-a-Lago and his close relationships with Trump’s family and allies, including JD Vance, Tucker Carlson, and Trump’s sons, have further cemented his influence. Trump’s granddaughter, Kai, reportedly refers to him as “Uncle Elon.”

The Fallout and Next Steps

While Musk’s integration into Trump’s circle has bolstered his role as a key ally, it has alienated some long-time aides who feel overshadowed. Several Trump loyalists view Musk’s frequent involvement in cabinet picks and high-level discussions as overstepping his bounds.

The Mar-a-Lago dinner altercation could signal deeper divisions within Trump’s team as they prepare for the challenges of the next administration. Insiders suggest the transition process may face further disruptions if tensions between Musk and senior advisers like Epshteyn remain unresolved.

As Trump’s team navigates these internal struggles, the focus remains on solidifying a cabinet and administrative strategy that aligns with Trump’s vision for his second term. However, the question remains: Can Musk and Epshteyn find common ground, or will their feud further fracture Trump’s transition efforts?

This story is developing.