Trump Labels Epstein File a “Hoax” Amid DOJ Withholding Scandal; Palm Beach Police Chief Debunks Trump’s Claim He Didn’t Know About Epstein’s Misconduct
NEWS & RESEARCH
Despite promising to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, President Trump labeled reports of his own inclusion in the documents a “hoax.” This denial followed a May 2025 briefing where then-Attorney General Pam Bondi explicitly informed him of his presence in the files. A subsequent NPR investigation revealed the DOJ intentionally withheld documents mentioning Trump—including allegations of sexual abuse of a minor—before eventually releasing a portion of the missing records. Meanwhile, although Trump maintains he had no idea about Epstein’s pedophilia, then-Palm Beach police chief says Trump called him in 2006, just before Epstein’s arrest, and told the chief that Epstein’s exploits were known by “everyone.”
SOURCES: NPR | Politico | NPR | NBC News
ANALYSIS & OPINION
The New York Times editorial board described the administration’s handling of the files as a “case study” in the abuse of power and public manipulation. The fallout triggered a rare rift within the GOP: MAGA influencers and officials, including Dan Bongino and Marjorie Taylor Greene, sharply criticized the lack of transparency. The internal friction led to Greene’s resignation from Congress after she faced retaliatory attacks from the President.
SOURCES: New York Times | CNBC | CNN
HOW TO FIX IT
Congressional action:
Investigate Interference: Probe the DOJ’s efforts to suppress evidence, specifically the role of interim Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Ensure Accountability: Support non-partisan investigations into all Epstein associates, regardless of political affiliation.
Protect Transparency: Block any attempts to stall lawsuits regarding the administration’s handling of these files.
