President Donald Trump faces criticism from within his “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) base over his administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Supporters had long expected significant disclosures — including a so-called “client list” — but a memo released by Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Justice Department last week stated there was no such list and reaffirmed that Epstein died by suicide.
MAGA backlash
Far-right commentator Laura Loomer, a close Trump ally, accused Bondi of withholding key information and called for a special counsel to lead a separate investigation.
“I don’t think that she has been transparent or done a good job handling this issue,” Loomer told Playbook. Her remarks reflect a wider rift within Trump’s base, as some supporters accuse Bondi of slow-walking the probe.
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The backlash follows years of speculation amplified by Trump allies such as Kash Patel and Dan Bongino. The two have suggested Epstein may have been murdered and that files implicating elites were being suppressed. Bondi herself had previously told Fox News that “a lot of names” were under review. But after last week’s memo, critics accused her of shifting narratives.
Plus, conservative voices like Steven Bannon and Tucker Carlson have accused Bondi of a cover-up.
Trump defends Bondi
Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi over the weekend, despite facing criticism from his own supporters. The president posted on Truth Social, saying, “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE’S GREAT!”
He also referred to Epstein as “somebody nobody cares about.”
Democrats push for release of Epstein-related files
Democratic Rep. Marc Veasey of Texas announced on X that he would introduce legislation Monday, July 14, demanding the release of all Epstein-related files. He told Playbook that the bill aims to expose “corruption and cronyism” in how the government has handled the case and accused Trump of shielding wealthy allies. “That’s what he lives for more than anything else in the world: protecting billionaires,” Veasey said.
Either @realDonaldTrump and his acolytes fueled the rumors of the significance of these Epstein files to help his campaign, or something is there! That's why on Monday, I’ll introduce a resolution demanding the Trump Administration release all files related to the Epstein case.… pic.twitter.com/ZRwPLz0Vlu
— Rep. Marc Veasey (@RepVeasey) July 13, 2025
Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., also said he plans to introduce an amendment on Tuesday, July 15, to compel a vote on releasing all Epstein-related documents.
He posted on X, “Why are the Epstein files still hidden? Who are the rich and powerful being protected?”
Why are the Epstein files still hidden? Who are the rich & powerful being protected?
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) July 13, 2025
On Tuesday, I'm introducing an amendment to force a vote demanding the FULL Epstein files be released to the public. The Speaker must call a vote & put every Congress member on record.
The renewed push comes as Trump tries to shift attention elsewhere. He has urged supporters to “not waste time and energy” on Epstein and instead focus on issues like election integrity. Still, with figures like Loomer advocating for outside investigations and congressional Democrats calling for disclosures, the issue shows no sign of fading.
