The Elon Musk Reid Hoffman feud took a dramatic turn this week after Musk publicly accused the LinkedIn co-founder of failing to clarify past associations with Jeffrey Epstein.
The exchange unfolded on Musk’s social platform X and quickly gained traction online. It added fresh intensity to a rivalry that has previously centred on politics and artificial intelligence.
Musk accused Hoffman of not adequately addressing past contacts with Epstein. In a direct post, Musk wrote that Hoffman had not been “cleared of anything” and suggested repeated stays at Epstein-linked properties raised serious questions.
He further argued that a single visit might be explained as an error. However, he claimed that multiple visits would require stronger clarification. The post attracted millions of views and rapidly circulated across social media.
Just a reminder that Reid Hoffman really did say in a public forum that he wished President Trump had been killed in the assassination attempt https://t.co/rc596IOVjJ
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 30, 2026
Images accompanying the online debate referenced reported email exchanges between Epstein and several high-profile individuals, including Hoffman.
It is important to note that inclusion in travel logs or correspondence does not automatically indicate criminal wrongdoing. Investigations into Epstein’s network have examined contacts across business, politics, and academia.
This is how I knew so long ago that Reid Hoffman went to Epstein’s island.
Epstein used Reid being there to try to get me to go, not realizing that it would have the opposite effect 😂 pic.twitter.com/zrOIq4gWaR
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 1, 2026
Hoffman’s Previous Statements
In past public remarks, Reid Hoffman acknowledged meeting Jeffrey Epstein. However, he stated that he regretted the association and was unaware of the full scope of Epstein’s crimes at the time.
Hoffman has denied any involvement in illegal activity. He has consistently maintained that his interactions did not amount to wrongdoing.
Just a reminder that Elon Musk really implied in a public forum that President Trump is a pedophile, and still chooses to spend hundreds of millions to support him. https://t.co/DN6cj7EM6Z pic.twitter.com/qp098J46SO
— Reid Hoffman (@reidhoffman) January 30, 2026
The current clash reflects broader tensions in Silicon Valley. Musk and Hoffman have previously disagreed over political matters and artificial intelligence policy. This latest dispute has brought the Epstein controversy back into the spotlight.
Wider Context of the Epstein Files
The legacy of Jeffrey Epstein continues to generate public debate years after his death. Investigations into his network have examined relationships with influential figures.
However, legal experts emphasise that appearing in records or communications does not in itself establish criminal liability. Each case depends on evidence and verified findings from authorities.
Read: New Epstein Files Reignite Online Conspiracy Claims
The public nature of the Musk-Hoffman exchange highlights how unresolved controversies can resurface in online discourse. As of now, neither side has announced further legal action regarding the claims made on X.
The feud underscores the broader impact of social media platforms on high-profile disputes. Statements made online can rapidly shape narratives and fuel debate among millions of users worldwide.