Prominent conservatives are raising concerns over the Justice Department’s handling of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, with many calling for more transparency on the case of the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender. This includes demands for the release of a “client list” and evidence to address speculation about Epstein’s cause of death.
Despite New York’s medical examiner ruling Epstein’s death a suicide in 2019, President Trump vowed on the campaign trail to declassify federal files on the matter. However, a recent report from the FBI and Justice Department revealed no such list or evidence of murder while in custody.
Criticism from some of Trump’s supporters has emerged, accusing his administration of failing to uphold promises of transparency. Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn cautioned that unanswered questions about Epstein could hinder progress on other national challenges.
Attorney General Pam Bondi faced backlash over her handling of the case, especially regarding comments made about the client list. The fallout from the Epstein case has reportedly unsettled officials within the administration, with FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino reportedly considering resignation.
Notable conservative figures, including Steve Bannon, have emphasized that the management of the Epstein case extends to the president himself. Bannon warned of potential electoral repercussions for Republicans if the issue is not properly addressed.
Megyn Kelly, a well-known public figure often supporting Trump, expressed doubt about the recent law enforcement review of the Epstein files. As a political commentator who aligns as an independent, Kelly stated on July 12 that there are two possibilities. She mentioned that there may not be significant undisclosed information on Epstein, with Bondi initially misrepresenting the situation until corrected, and Trump being forgiving to a loyal supporter eager for media attention. Alternatively, she suggested there could be a scandal being concealed, possibly orchestrated by Trump. This critique was featured in an article on USA TODAY where Steve Bannon and Megyn Kelly criticized the Trump administration’s handling of the Epstein case.
