The Bulwark Podcast Bill Kristol: This Is Trump's Cover-Up
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Dec 22, 2025 
Bill Kristol, Editor-at-large and conservative commentator, tackles the contentious issues surrounding the DOJ's handling of the Epstein case. He argues that the Justice Department is acting as Trump's defense team, hiding critical victim statements, and executing a cover-up. Kristol also criticizes Bari Weiss's influence on media integrity and the absurdity of GOP figures like J.D. Vance embracing extremist rhetoric. The discussion delves into the impact of these political dynamics on the Republican Party and America’s national security.
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DOJ Functioning As Defense Team
- The DOJ under Trump acts less like a neutral prosecutor and more like the defendant's defense team in Epstein-related releases.
- Bill Kristol argues the heavy redactions and missing victim statements amount to a partial cover-up directed byTrump's Justice Department.
Victim Statements Were Central And Missing
- Victim statements were the core demand but were largely withheld, undermining transparency.
- Kristol stresses that without those statements or credible mentions of other co-conspirators, the release is unacceptable.
Cushy Treatment Raises Credibility Questions
- Glenn Maxwell received a prison transfer that Kristol and Miller say looks like preferential treatment.
- They view Bureau of Prisons explanations as implausible and another sign of DOJ bad faith.