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For Some Republicans, Trump’s Shift on Epstein Is Just the Latest Breach

The New York Times's profile
Original Story by The New York Times
July 16, 2025
For Some Republicans, Trump’s Shift on Epstein Is Just the Latest Breach

Context:

Right-wing Republicans, including Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, express growing frustration with President Trump over his administration's decision not to release further details on the Jeffrey Epstein case, citing it as a breach of trust. This discontent is compounded by Trump's recent policy reversals on Iran and Ukraine, which have led to suggestions that he is betraying the electorate's interests. Despite Trump's assurances that only credible information should be disclosed, the Epstein issue has become a focal point of contention, with some GOP lawmakers advocating for transparency to regain public trust. Tensions have intensified as Democrats occasionally align with these Republican criticisms, further complicating the political landscape. Some Republicans, like Representatives Thomas Massie and Marc Veasey, are seeking bipartisan support to force the release of Epstein-related documents, highlighting a rare moment of unity across party lines on this issue.

Dive Deeper:

  • Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene criticizes President Trump's decision not to disclose more information about the Epstein case, viewing it as a reversal of previous promises and a failure to hold the powerful accountable.

  • The discontent among right-wing Republicans extends to other issues, such as Trump's stances on Iran and Ukraine, leading to accusations of him betraying his voters and causing potential fractures within his political coalition.

  • Attorney General Pam Bondi's judgment is trusted by Trump, who dismisses the Epstein inquiry as 'boring,' despite the public's demand for transparency and accountability.

  • Senator Josh Hawley expresses concerns over Trump's domestic policy, particularly the cuts to Medicaid, illustrating intra-party tensions as Republicans grapple with policy decisions that impact their working-class base.

  • The Epstein case has prompted bipartisan efforts, with figures like Representative Thomas Massie advocating for a discharge petition to force a vote on releasing the files, reflecting a shared interest across party lines for transparency.

  • Democrats, while critical of Trump, recognize the popular demand for Epstein-related disclosures and seek to prevent Attorney General Bondi from becoming the scapegoat for Republican dissatisfaction.

  • Representative Nancy Mace supports appointing a special counsel to investigate the Epstein matter further, emphasizing the need for government transparency to rebuild public trust.

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