Former President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, sharply criticizing fellow Republicans and others who, according to him, are "weaklings" for giving credence to allegations linking him to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. This comes as prominent GOP lawmakers increase demands for the release of sealed documents related to Epstein's criminal network and potential connections to public figures.
Trump Dismisses Epstein Allegations as ‘Bullsh*t’
In a series of posts on Truth Social and recent public appearances, Trump denounced ongoing speculation about his relationship with Epstein, calling it "bullsh*t" and accusing those within his own party who push for transparency of being "spineless." Trump's comments follow renewed attention on the case after a bipartisan group of lawmakers urged the Department of Justice to unseal further records from the 2019 Epstein investigation.
"Anyone who believes this Epstein nonsense is a weakling, falling for the same old lies," Trump wrote online, without naming specific GOP members. The former president has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing or close association with Epstein, who died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
GOP Lawmakers Push for Transparency
Mounting pressure from Republican lawmakers comes as the House Oversight Committee, now under GOP leadership, announced plans this week to subpoena the Department of Justice for unreleased Epstein-related documents. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) stated, "The American people deserve full transparency regarding the scope and reach of Epstein's criminal activities and any potential connections to public officials, regardless of party."
Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) have also called for a special counsel to oversee a comprehensive review of the investigation, citing concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of ongoing proceedings.
Public and Political Reactions
The renewed scrutiny of the Epstein case has reignited controversy in the 2024 campaign's aftermath, with Trump remaining a dominant force in the Republican Party despite ongoing legal challenges and criticism from within his ranks. Social media platforms have seen a surge in discussion around unsealed court filings, with hashtags such as #EpsteinDocuments trending nationwide.
Meanwhile, legal experts caution that the release of additional documents could pose privacy and legal risks for individuals not charged with any crimes. The Department of Justice has yet to respond to the latest subpoena threat but stated last month that document reviews are "ongoing and complex."
What Comes Next?
The House Oversight Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing on the matter next week. As divisions within the GOP widen over how to handle the Epstein records, Trump’s combative stance signals ongoing tension as the party navigates growing calls for transparency and accountability.
- Trump denies any close association with Jeffrey Epstein
- GOP lawmakers demand release of sealed Epstein documents
- Department of Justice faces subpoena threats over transparency
The debate over the Epstein documents is expected to remain a flashpoint in Washington as the 2026 midterm election cycle approaches and public demands for accountability continue.
