Trump Faces GOP Backlash Over Epstein File Transparency

President Donald Trump has sparked controversy within his own Republican Party by dismissing calls for the full release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files as a "hoax" and accusing his GOP critics of being "stupid" and falling for Democratic schemes. Despite Attorney General Pam Bondi's pledge to release grand jury testimony, Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans demand the disclosure of the entire evidentiary file, including witness memos and client lists, which Bondi has denied possessing. Trump’s harsh rhetoric alienated parts of his MAGA base, with journalist Tina Brown noting a decline in his supporters’ trust due to his shift from promising transparency to blaming Democrats for the controversy. The White House defended Trump’s actions, accusing Democrats of politicizing the Epstein case while highlighting his administration’s efforts to review the files. Meanwhile, internal tensions surfaced as DOJ fired a federal prosecutor involved in Epstein cases, and Republican leaders remain divided over the demand for transparency. Trump maintains that the Epstein case is a distraction from his administration's successes and continues to support Bondi's handling of the investigation.