Context:

The White House is under scrutiny for its handling of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, with both Democrats and Republicans calling for their release. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Democrats for their demands, arguing they ignored transparency issues during their time in power. President Trump has downplayed the importance of the case, stating that the Justice Department faces bigger challenges and dismissing the controversy as a Democrat-driven hoax. Despite Republican frustrations over transparency, Trump has not endorsed appointing a special prosecutor, and Attorney General Pam Bondi plans to release only credible information. Internal tensions are rising, as FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino is reportedly considering resignation over the situation's handling.

Dive Deeper:

• The White House, through Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, has strongly pushed back against bipartisan criticism regarding the handling of Jeffrey Epstein's files, labeling Democrat demands as insincere given their previous lack of action on transparency.

• President Trump has prioritized other issues over the Epstein case, stating that the Justice Department has more significant problems to address, and he has dismissed the criticism as part of a broader Democrat hoax strategy.

• Amid mounting pressure, Trump has clarified that he does not support appointing a special prosecutor for the Epstein case, suggesting that such an idea originated from media speculation rather than any formal proposal.

• A joint memo from the Justice Department and FBI, obtained by Axios, concludes that there is no evidence of Epstein blackmailing prominent individuals, maintaining a client list, or being murdered, further complicating calls for transparency.

• Republican frustration with the administration's approach is growing, with some viewing the lack of transparency as problematic, while Trump attributes Republican concerns to being misled by Democratic tactics.

• Attorney General Pam Bondi has committed to releasing any credible Epstein-related information, but Trump continues to downplay the significance of the case, emphasizing that Epstein is deceased and dismissing ongoing concerns as politically motivated.

• Amidst the controversy, there are reports of potential resignations within the FBI, with Deputy Director Dan Bongino allegedly considering leaving his position due to dissatisfaction with the handling of the Epstein files.