Trump Faces Ongoing Fallout from Epstein Scandal Amid Political Backlash

President Donald Trump recently shared his version of how he ended his friendship with the late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, stating he banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago due to Epstein poaching his employees. Despite Trump’s distancing, his association with Epstein continues to attract criticism and political backlash, with opponents highlighting the troubling implications of their relationship. Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose office promised to release Epstein’s client list, has yet to do so, drawing calls for her resignation which Trump has resisted, only instructing her to release certain documents. The Epstein controversy is overshadowing Trump’s administration, causing frustration for the president and unrest within the Justice Department and FBI, who appear strained amid the ongoing scrutiny. While Trump dismisses claims that his trade negotiations were tactics to distract from the Epstein fallout, insiders describe his administration as being in 'panic mode,' struggling to manage the political and public relations crisis. Attempts by White House officials to shift focus, including crediting Trump with international peace efforts, have been met with skepticism and accusations of gaslighting amid the mounting pressure.