Trump Claims Epstein Files ‘Made Up’ by Political Foes

🎯 Trump’s Controversial Epstein Claim

On July 15, 2025, President Donald Trump made headlines by asserting that the Jeffrey Epstein files were “made up by Comey, Obama, and Biden”, referencing former FBI Director James Comey, former President Barack Obama, and the Biden administration. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed these files, which have long been a focal point of conspiracy theories, were fabricated as part of a political attack akin to the “Russia, Russia, Russia hoax.” He urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to release only information she deems “credible,” a statement that has intensified scrutiny on the administration’s handling of the Epstein case. ABC News reported Trump’s remarks, noting his frustration with the ongoing public interest in Epstein.

The Epstein files, linked to the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender who died by suicide in 2019, have been a lightning rod for speculation. The Justice Department’s recent memo, released on July 7, concluded there was no “client list” or evidence of blackmail, contradicting earlier promises of transparency from Bondi and others. Trump’s claim that the files were created by political adversaries has drawn skepticism, as the Epstein investigation occurred during his first term, with then-Attorney General Bill Barr confirming the suicide ruling.

🔍 MAGA Backlash and Internal Conflicts

Trump’s remarks have sparked a rare revolt among his MAGA base, with prominent figures like Laura Loomer and Elon Musk criticizing the administration’s lack of transparency. Loomer has called for Bondi’s resignation, while Musk, in a post on X, urged the release of all files, stating, “Just release the files as promised.” The backlash intensified after reports of a heated clash between Bondi and Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino, who reportedly considered resigning over the handling of the files. CNN noted that Bongino’s absence from work on July 11 underscored the internal rift.

Bondi, who earlier this year suggested she had an Epstein “client list” on her desk, later clarified she was referring to general case files. This reversal has fueled distrust among supporters who expected significant revelations. The Justice Department’s memo, which found no evidence to support conspiracy theories, has been labeled a “political nightmare” by some Trump allies, who argue it was poorly timed and managed.

💡 Public and Political Reactions

The public reaction has been polarized, with social media platforms like X buzzing with debate. Posts on X, such as those from @SpecialSitsNews and @MJTruthUltra, reflect MAGA supporters’ frustration, with many refusing to accept Trump’s narrative that the files are a Democratic fabrication. Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Josh Hawley have called for more transparency, with Johnson stating Bondi “needs to explain” her stance. Democrats have seized the opportunity, attempting to force a vote to release more files, though Republicans countered that the Biden administration also withheld documents.

High-profile figures, including actor Kevin Spacey, have joined the call for full disclosure, emphasizing the need for truth. The controversy has also drawn attention from conservative commentators like Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson, who argue the administration’s handling risks alienating its base ahead of the 2026 midterms.

📈 What Lies Ahead for the Epstein Files

The Epstein files controversy shows no signs of fading, with Trump’s base demanding accountability. The administration faces a delicate balancing act: maintaining credibility while addressing supporters’ expectations. Bondi’s insistence that the July 7 memo “speaks for itself” has done little to quell the unrest, and Trump’s suggestion that she release “credible” information leaves room for speculation about future disclosures. Political analysts warn that prolonged silence could impact Republican prospects in the 2026 midterms, especially as influential voices like Musk and Loomer continue to amplify the issue.

Questions remain about the missing minute in the jail footage released by the Justice Department, which Bondi has struggled to explain. As pressure mounts, the administration may need to address these gaps to restore trust. For now, the Epstein files remain a divisive issue, testing Trump’s ability to unify his base.

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