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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Episode notes
Epstein Files Anger Trump's Base
- The Epstein files controversy is the last storyline the Trump administration wants to confront.
- Anger comes mainly from Trump's own base demanding transparency, challenging the administration's narrative.
Epstein's Powerful Circle Exposed
- Jeffrey Epstein was a wealthy financier involved in widespread sex abuse, including minors.
- His social circle included many powerful people, but only he and Ghislaine Maxwell faced incarceration.
Conspiracy Theories Fuel Base's Demand
- Trump's base is drawn to conspiracy theories around Epstein due to political motives.
- Credible evidence to charge others beyond Epstein has not emerged despite allegations involving multiple political parties.
