Why can’t Donald Trump shake off the Epstein Files?

14 snips

Jul 16, 2025

Donald Trump's attempts to distance himself from the Epstein scandal face increasing backlash from within the Republican Party. Prominent figures are demanding transparency, igniting conspiracy theories and deepening internal divides. Newly uncovered surveillance footage of Epstein raises questions and skepticism, adding to the political drama. The ongoing tension highlights the precarious balance Trump's political future hangs upon as he navigates these challenges with his supporters. Ultimately, public trust in his leadership is increasingly on the line.

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INSIGHT

Trump's Epstein Files Challenge

Donald Trump's refusal to release Epstein-related files stokes conspiracy theories among his supporters and causes dissent within the Republican party.
This creates a political challenge as it contrasts with Trump's outsider stance against rich, powerful elites.

INSIGHT

Broad Public Suspicion Grows

A broad coalition, beyond wild conspiracy theorists, suspects something suspicious about Epstein's case.
80% of the American public demands full disclosure, reflecting widespread distrust and political risk for Trump.

INSIGHT

Epstein Files Political Damage

Trump's team may have deceptively used Epstein allegations for political gain or might be covering up something.
Regardless, this scenario is damaging politically and damages his credibility even in the best case.

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Donald Trump is trying to move on and dismiss the growing backlash within his own party over the refusal to release further information related to the sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This week, the leading Republican - and House Speaker - Mike Johnson has called for Trump to “put everything out there” and publish documents related to Epstein, otherwise known as the Epstein Files.

There are a growing number of influential Republicans who are now also breaking from Trump, by calling for greater transparency around the information, adding to the conspiracy theories around a possible cover up.

Trump (via posts on Truth Social) is dismissing these demands as a “SCAM” and a “HOAX”, saying his supporters have been conned by the “Lunatic Left for 8 long years”.

But, will he be able to shut down the rows within his own party, and how significant could this be for his presidency?

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

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This episode was made by George Dabby with Alix Pickles and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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