The New Statesman: politics and culture Why can't Trump shake Epstein? | US politics with Katie Stallard and Freddie Hayward
Jul 29, 2025
Freddie Hayward, the US Editor at the New Statesman, joins Katie Stallard to delve into Donald Trump's complicated ties to Jeffrey Epstein. They explore why Trump struggles to distance himself from Epstein's legacy, causing friction with his supporters. The discussion also touches on the dissonance within the MAGA base regarding these revelations and how it impacts congressional politics. Additionally, they analyze Trump's shifting stance on humanitarian issues, particularly regarding Gaza, suggesting a significant political evolution.
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Trump Can't Shake Epstein Link
- Trump's attempts to distance himself from Epstein are failing due to continued media attention and political pressure.
- His connections to Epstein remain under scrutiny, fueling ongoing controversy.
Epstein Files Expose Trump Personally
- The Epstein files allegations matter less than the perception of a cover-up feeding distrust and anger.
- This controversy exposes Trump's character and creates a personal betrayal felt by his base.
MAGA Cognitive Dissonance on Trump
- Trump's supporters show cognitive dissonance by trusting him despite his history of sexual misconduct.
- They still view him as a savior in the Epstein saga despite contradictory evidence.