Initial Reactions from Those Named

Donald Trump’s Epstein coverup has faltered. Jeffrey Epstein’s estate has produced tens of thousands of emails implicating scads of U.S. elites, Trump foremost among them, but including famed economist Larry Summers and other prominent Democrats. Meanwhile, Congress has now voted overwhelmingly to compel the Justice Department to release its Epstein case files.

In this episode, Matt and Brian discuss:

* What do the recent disclosures actually reveal?

* What the fuck Larry Summers?! And, also, ew!

* Should erstwhile Summers allies throw him under the bus, even though he’s announced his withdrawal from public life?

Then, for paid subscribers, what now? Will Trump sign the Epstein disclosure bill without delay? If so, how will he endeavor to obstruct disclosure once it becomes law? Is the evidence in the case file safe from tampering or destruction? And why has this issue, rather than tariffs or health care or even war in Venezuela, the one that has blown the coalition wide open? (Hint: It has something to do with all the antisemites in MAGA).

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Further reading:

* Brian argues Dems should lean into Epstein politics at least as hard as party strategists want them to lean into “affordability.”

* Matt argues moderation shouldn’t be synonymous with throwing a winning hand—possibly relevant to forthcoming Epstein politics.

* Emily Catalano on Epstein truthers coming full circle.