Epstein Files Controversy Deepens Rift Among Trump Supporters, Threatens GOP Midterm Outlook

President Donald Trump faces increasing backlash from his supporters and political opponents over his refusal to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a stance that has deepened divisions within the MAGA movement. Despite Epstein's criminal history involving sex trafficking and abuse of minors, the secrecy surrounding the so-called "Epstein files" has fueled widespread conspiracy theories suggesting a cover-up to protect powerful elites, including Trump himself. Late-night hosts and critics highlight the irony of Trump dismissing the files as a hoax created by political rivals, while Democrats push for congressional transparency, and Elon Musk has intensified scrutiny by probing Epstein's flight logs through his AI chatbot. The controversy underscores Epstein's enduring political potency, with many viewing the case as emblematic of systemic corruption and injustice. This growing discord threatens to fracture Trump's base, with some advisors warning that up to 10% of his supporters might defect, potentially impacting upcoming elections and influencing the remainder of Trump's presidency. The ongoing Epstein saga thus remains a volatile and influential factor in American political discourse.