Trump Faces Political Pressure Over Epstein Files Release

President Donald Trump faces increasing political pressure over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein amid demands for the release of Epstein-related government files. Despite previously promising to open these files, the Trump administration's failure to disclose information has fueled public suspicion that something is being hidden, with a majority of Americans, including many Republicans, believing in a cover-up. Trump's own MAGA base is pressuring him to release the files, even as he pivots to dismiss the controversy as a left-wing hoax. Critics argue that Trump’s relationship with Epstein was more than casual, highlighting allegations that Epstein recruited underage girls at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club, which Trump has denied while simultaneously distancing Epstein from the club. Democrats are advised to keep emphasizing Trump’s protection of elites in order to resonate with voters and maintain focus on the scandal. The situation exemplifies how political leaders can become trapped by the extremist demands they incite, with Trump now caught between his base's demands and his attempts to deflect blame.