KQED's Forum President Trump Tries, Fails to Stem Epstein Files Controversy
Jul 22, 2025
Join Luke Broadwater, a seasoned White House reporter for The New York Times, alongside Ankush Khardori, a senior writer at POLITICO and former federal prosecutor, as they dive into the tumultuous waters of President Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein. They discuss the intense demands for transparency from Trump's base and the implications of ongoing investigations. The guests explore conspiracy theories swirling around the case, the political fallout for the GOP, and how narratives are shaped in the media landscape. Get ready for a thought-provoking analysis!
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Trump's Deep but Contested Ties to Epstein
- Trump's direct associations with Epstein include private jet flights and social events over 15 years.
- Despite suspicion, Trump’s reluctance to release files contrasts with his prior political weaponization of the Epstein case.
Trump's Lawsuit Risks Backfiring
- Trump's lawsuit against WSJ over a disputed birthday note is weak but aims to intimidate media.
- He risks discovery that might expose broader Epstein-related questions and motives.
Flight Logs vs. Evidence of Crime
- Released Epstein files mainly include known information like flight logs, not a comprehensive client list.
- Presence on lists or flights does not imply criminal involvement, complicating public demand for culpability.
