The Focus Group Podcast S6 Ep12: Epstein Files & Illegal Orders (w/ Will Sommer and Sen. Elissa Slotkin)
Nov 22, 2025
Will Sommer, a journalist and author of the False Flag newsletter, dives into the shifting political landscape surrounding the Epstein files and reveals how Trump’s supporters are reacting. Senator Elissa Slotkin, a U.S. Senator from Michigan, discusses her PSA urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders, addressing concerns of misuse of power. She also reflects on the recent government shutdown, highlighting the frustrations of voters and strategic divides within the Democratic party, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and engagement.
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Epstein About-Face Is Strategic, Not Sincere
- Trump's sudden support for releasing the Epstein files likely reflects a strategic shift, not a change of heart.
- Will Sommer suggests they're trying to move control to the Justice Department to delay or limit damaging disclosures.
Voters' Frustration Over Broken Promise
- Focus-group Trump voters expressed annoyance that Trump promised to release Epstein files and hasn't followed through.
- One voter warned that releasing files could 'end his presidency' because powerful people would react.
Limited Penetration Of Detailed Allegations
- Many Trump voters know about the Epstein files but don't engage with detailed allegations linking Trump.
- They frame the issue as annoyance or national-security complexity, not direct guilt.