Trump criticizes Republicans over Epstein case handling

(Patria) - US President Donald Trump criticized fellow Republicans for their reaction to the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, calling it a "hoax" promoted by Democrats.

Trump expressed his frustration both on social media and during comments in the Oval Office, targeting allies he believes are falling for Democratic tactics, Reuters reports.

"It's all a big hoax," Trump said in the Oval Office.

"It's been perpetrated by the Democrats and some weak Republicans, and the weak Republicans are falling for it and trying to do the Democrats' work."

Earlier on the Truth Social network, Trump wrote about Republicans expressing
concern: "Let these weaklings continue to move forward and do the Democrats' work, don't even
think about talking about our incredible and unprecedented success, because I don't want their support anymore!"

The controversy emerged after the Trump administration reversed its earlier promise to release documents that it suggested contained major revelations about Epstein and his alleged clients. This change angered some of Trump's most loyal supporters. Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender, committed suicide in prison in 2019 while facing federal charges of sex trafficking of minors. He pleaded not guilty, and the case was dismissed after his death.

Former Trump advisor Mike Flynn contradicted the president's stance, stating on
social media platform X that the matter was not a hoax and recommending that Trump "rally his team and find a way to get through this."

The Department of Justice recently concluded that "there is no incriminating client list" or evidence that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals. Their review also confirmed previous FBI findings that Epstein committed suicide in his prison cell while awaiting trial, ruling out homicide or other criminal acts.

Negative reactions to the Epstein case have revealed tensions within Trump's coalition and are testing his ability to maintain loyalty and control the narrative in right-wing circles.