U.S. President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on his former supporters and members of his own party on Wednesday, July 16, amid intensifying scrutiny over his administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Speaking during a turbulent week politically, Trump sought to downplay conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein’s death, dismissing them as a “Democratic hoax” and accusing some of his followers of falling for misinformation.
“My past supporters have bought into this ‘bullshit’, hook, line, and sinker,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, calling them “weaklings.”
In comments from the Oval Office later that day, he doubled down: “It’s all been a big hoax, perpetrated by the Democrats. And some stupid Republicans and foolish Republicans fall into the net and try to do the Democrats’ work.”
Trump’s comments come amid rising tension within his right-wing base, some of whom accuse his administration of covering up details related to Epstein, the disgraced financier who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Epstein was accused of grooming underage girls for abuse by powerful individuals.
Some far-right supporters have long insisted that Epstein was murdered to protect a secret “client list” of elites. However, the Justice Department and FBI recently reaffirmed that Epstein died by suicide and stated there is no credible evidence of such a list or blackmail network.
While meeting with Bahrain’s crown prince, Trump again rejected the conspiracy theories, blaming Democrats and “stupid people” for spreading them. “And the sad part is, it’s people really doing the Democrats’ work. They’re stupid people,” he added.
Asked if his remarks meant he was disavowing former supporters, Trump replied, “I lost a lot of faith in certain people, yes.”
Although Trump has denied ever visiting Epstein’s private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, his past ties to Epstein have resurfaced. Before taking office, Trump pledged to release documents related to the case. His administration’s failure to follow through has fueled frustration among loyalists.
The scandal is also causing strain within the administration. Attorney General Pam Bondi is publicly at odds with Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino, who is reportedly considering resignation. Trump stated that Bondi could release “whatever’s credible” from the case files.
Criticism has even emerged from Trump’s allies. Senator Ted Cruz urged full transparency, saying, “I have long said we should release everything.” Retired Gen. Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security advisor and current appointee to a military oversight board, called the handling of the case “terrible,” adding, “It is NOT about Epstein or the left. It is about committing crimes against CHILDREN.”
As Trump tries to contain the fallout, the Epstein case remains a politically volatile issue, threatening to deepen divisions within his base and damage internal cohesion in his administration ahead of the 2026 midterms.
