Post Reports Trump’s pivot on the Epstein files and his polling plunge
Nov 21, 2025
Dan Merica, co-anchor of The Washington Post's politics newsletter, and Jeremy Roebuck, Justice Department reporter, dive into the recent release of the Epstein files and Trump’s unexpected support for this legislation. They discuss how the DOJ retains certain redaction powers, limiting full transparency. The conversation also highlights Trump's recent political struggles and strategic pivots, including his focus on exposing Democrats linked to Epstein. Finally, they touch on critical issues like gerrymandering in Texas and its impact on upcoming elections.
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Bipartisan Push Forced Epstein Vote
- A bipartisan discharge petition forced a House vote that led to near-unanimous congressional support to release the Epstein files.
- Donald Trump's abrupt reversal and endorsement drove almost all House Republicans to back the measure, according to Dan Merica.
Law Orders Release But Leaves Loopholes
- The Epstein Files Transparency Act directs DOJ to release vast investigative material but contains carve-outs.
- DOJ can withhold redacted victim IDs, grand-jury material, and anything that interferes with active probes, Jeremy Roebuck explains.
Redactions Require Reasons But Can Be Broad
- DOJ must provide reasons for any redactions, yet those justifications can still permit substantial withholding.
- Grand-jury protections and active-investigation claims remain the biggest legal barriers to full public disclosure.