WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Friday urged the Justice Department (DOJ) to make public any documents linking Democratic politicians to late financier Jeffrey Epstein, calling for the officials to be “embarrassed” in the process.
The remarks came after the DOJ began reviewing millions of pages of records connected to Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges of trafficking underage girls for sex.
Trump, who was once a social acquaintance of Epstein, has consistently maintained that he distanced himself after Epstein’s crimes surfaced. However, he has remained vocal on Truth Social, urging the release of files that could implicate his political rivals.
“Democrats, Not Republicans”
In a post Friday, Trump claimed, “The Dems are the ones who worked with Epstein, not the Republicans. Release all of their names, embarrass them, and get back to helping our Country!”
He continued, labeling the situation a partisan attack, saying, “The Radical Left doesn’t want people talking about TRUMP & REPUBLICAN SUCCESS, only a long ago dead Jeffrey Epstein — Just another Witch Hunt!!!”
Trump did not specify which Democrats he believed might be named in the files.
DOJ Delays and Redactions
The DOJ missed a December 19 deadline for full release of the documents, a delay attributed to the painstaking process of redacting the identities of Epstein’s victims. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the need to protect the privacy and safety of those involved.
Officials also stressed that the files contain “untrue and sensationalist claims” about Trump, submitted to the FBI before the 2020 election, which he ultimately won. The department has not clarified which allegations are considered false.
“If they had a shred of credibility, they certainly would have been weaponized against President Trump already,” DOJ representatives said.
Background
Epstein’s network of wealthy associates and powerful contacts has drawn intense scrutiny over the years. The recent release of documents has fueled ongoing debates in Washington over transparency, accountability, and whether political figures could face reputational damage.
Trump’s comments align with his broader strategy of attacking Democratic rivals while highlighting his own administration’s purported successes. The issue is expected to dominate headlines as more records are reviewed and potentially released in the coming weeks.
