Kash Patel’s live interview with Joe Rogan Thursday afternoon took an unexpected twist as the FBI director – and podcast host – learned in real time that Elon Musk had just accused President Donald Trump of being listed in the notorious Epstein files.
The shock came as Rogan and Patel were deep in conversation about conspiracy theories tied to Jeffrey Epstein – who Patel now insists died by suicide – a reversal from his previous theory that Epstein was murdered in jail that has angered some in the MAGA world, the Independent reported.
But the interview shifted when Rogan’s producer interrupted the conversation with news that Musk had posted on his social media feed that Trump “is in the Epstein files.”
“Jesus Christ,” Rogan gasped as he read Musk’s bombshell claim aloud. “Someone should take his phone away.”
Patel was clearly blindsided. “That’s way outside my lane,” he said as Rogan asked him directly, “How does he know that Donald Trump’s in the Epstein files?”
“I don’t know how he would, but I’m just staying out of the Trump-Elon thing,” the FBI director replied. “That’s way outside my lane.”
Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One Friday that he was “not thinking about Elon." But a source told CNN that the president is actively asking aides about Musk’s recent behavior, including whether it may be tied to his alleged ketamine use.
“I’m not participating in any of that conversation between Elon and Trump,” Patel added to Rogan as the social media war between Musk and Trump broke out Thursday.