Trump Distances Himself From Supporters Demanding Epstein Files
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
Former president calls them “weaklings” and disowns their support
Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Right-Leaning
Why: The article centers on Trump’s perspective, defends Pam Bondi, criticizes DOJ transparency efforts, and dismisses MAGA critics without challenging Trump’s narrative.
What Happened
President Donald Trump on Wednesday disavowed supporters who are demanding the full release of Justice Department files related to Jeffrey Epstein. In a lengthy Truth Social post, Trump criticized those pushing for further transparency as having “bought into this bulls---,” and labeled them “weaklings.”
This marks a sharp shift from a significant portion of his MAGA base, which has long called for the release of documents related to Epstein and any potential connections to powerful figures.
Trump’s Truth Social PostIn the post, Trump distanced himself from former allies and supporters who are raising concerns over the Epstein case, accusing them of helping Democrats.
“My PAST supporters have bought into this ‘bulls---’ hook, line, and sinker,” Trump wrote. “Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats’ work... I don’t want their support anymore!”
The statement was made shortly after the Justice Department released a memo earlier this month stating there is no “incriminating client list” tied to Epstein’s records, leading to renewed scrutiny from conservative figures.
Defense of Pam Bondi
Trump also used the opportunity to defend former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is currently under fire for comments she made regarding the Epstein investigation. Bondi had previously said in a Fox News interview that an Epstein-related file was on her desk for review. Later, she clarified during a cabinet meeting that she was referring only to a non-incriminating document related to the case.
Trump backed her position:
“Pam Bondi, I really think that she’s done very good,” he said. “She gave all the credible information she had, and if more comes up, she’ll share that too. What more can she do?”
Criticism Within the GOP
Despite Trump’s statements, some prominent Republican voices continue to demand transparency.
House Speaker Mike Johnson: In an interview with commentator Benny Johnson, Johnson supported releasing the documents. “It’s a very delicate subject, but we should put everything out there,” he said.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.): Greene posted in all-caps on X demanding that the DOJ “release the Epstein client list.” After Trump’s post, she followed up by saying her loyalty is only to God and Jesus Christ, not to any political figure.
Trump Dismisses Epstein Discussion
When asked again by reporters, Trump showed further frustration with the Epstein conversation.
“I’ve lost a lot of faith in certain people because they got duped by the Democrats,” he said.“It’s pretty boring stuff. It’s sordid, but it’s boring. I don’t understand why it keeps going.”
The comments come despite Trump’s previous connections with Epstein. In 2002, Trump told New York Magazine that Epstein was a “terrific guy,” though he later claimed they had a falling out long before Epstein's arrest in 2019.
Background on the Epstein Case
Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide, but the high-profile nature of his connections — including ties to politicians, businessmen, and royalty — has led to widespread conspiracy theories.
While Trump and others previously pushed narratives implicating Democrats and elites in Epstein’s inner circle, his recent dismissal of the topic as unimportant has drawn criticism from some of his core supporters.
Why It Matters
Trump’s disavowal marks a rare public fracture within his base, particularly on an issue that has long fueled conspiracy theories and distrust of institutions in MAGA circles. It also highlights growing internal tension as the 2024 election approaches, with candidates and influencers staking out different positions on issues of government transparency and elite accountability.
What’s Next
As House Republicans push for more documents to be released and public pressure mounts, the Justice Department may face continued scrutiny over its handling of the Epstein case. Trump’s rejection of the issue may create deeper divisions among right-leaning voters and reshape how Epstein-related investigations are politicized in the coming months.
Bottom Line
Trump’s break with supporters demanding Epstein file releases reflects a strategic pivot as he attempts to consolidate control over the 2024 narrative. But in doing so, he risks alienating parts of the populist movement that have been central to his political strength.
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