Key Takeaways:
• President Trump called the newly released Epstein files a “Democrat hoax” during an Oval Office press conference.
• CNN hosts Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar immediately fact-checked Trump’s claims live on air.
• Trump said he supports transparency but claimed some names in the Epstein files may not belong there.
• The Department of Justice still holds roughly 100,000 pages of unreleased Epstein documents.
• Trump and Vice President JD Vance had promised to release all Epstein files during their 2024 campaign.
Epstein Files Labelled a Hoax by President Trump
During a White House press briefing, President Trump dismissed the recent release of Epstein files as “a Democrat hoax.” He said Democrats only pushed the story to hurt his record. Trump claimed he backed full transparency. Yet, he questioned why certain names might appear in the documents. He added that many people in Palm Beach may not deserve to be linked to Epstein.
As Trump spoke, he insisted he told Attorney General Pam Bondi to hand over “everything.” He repeated the files were part of a political attack. Trump even suggested Democrats brought up Epstein to distract from his administration’s successes.
Media Fact-Check of Epstein Files Claims
Immediately after Trump finished, CNN hosts Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar cut in with a fact-check. They made clear that not all of the president’s statements were accurate. Sanchez noted that Trump tried to distance himself from the files by calling them a hoax. Then Keilar pointed out Trump’s own campaign promise to release all Epstein files. She said it was odd for him to blame Democrats when he and his team had vowed the files would see the light of day.
In addition, they reminded viewers that the Department of Justice still holds tens of thousands of Epstein documents. So far, roughly 100,000 pages remain secret. That fact alone undermines any claim of full transparency.
What Do the Unreleased Epstein Files Contain?
According to reports, the FBI categorized some withheld items in 2019. One is a detailed logbook showing visitors to Epstein’s private island. Another is a “document with names” that could list high-profile visitors. Although some had speculated about a so-called “client list,” Attorney General Bondi said no formal list exists.
Moreover, experts believe these files might include witness interviews, financial records, and flight logs. If released, they could reveal new details about Epstein’s network. Yet, the DOJ said it needs time to review them carefully. It must protect privacy and ensure ongoing investigations remain secure.
Promises vs. Reality on Epstein Files Release
On the campaign trail in 2024, both Trump and Vice President JD Vance promised to share all Epstein documents. They said they wanted the public to see who Epstein knew and how far his influence spread. However, the Department of Justice has not met that promise. Instead, it is still reviewing files for sensitive information.
Consequently, Biden administration officials face pressure from Congress. The House Oversight Committee even issued a subpoena for the files. In response, the DOJ agreed to hand over a new batch of documents. Yet, they still hold back a major portion of the collection.
Why Are the Epstein Files Still Unreleased?
First, the Department of Justice needs to protect personal privacy. Many people mentioned in the files have not been accused of any crime. Second, some records involve ongoing legal cases. Releasing them prematurely could harm investigations.
Furthermore, the sheer volume of documents slows the process. Reviewing 100,000 pages takes time and staff. Finally, the DOJ wants to avoid exposing innocent individuals to public shame. As a result, they must strike a balance between transparency and fairness.
Reactions and Next Steps
After CNN’s live fact-check, viewers saw how the media can challenge high-level statements. Many Republicans defended Trump’s hoax claim, calling it a political tactic. Meanwhile, Democrats and watchdog groups called for full disclosure of the Epstein files.
In Congress, some members plan to hold more hearings. They want to pressure the DOJ to speed up its review. At the same time, civil rights groups demand that any harmful or false allegations be removed quickly.
Public opinion remains divided. Some people believe the files could expose a major scandal. Others worry about rumors and unverified claims spreading online.
In the coming weeks, the House Oversight Committee may receive more documents. That could force the DOJ to set firm timelines for release. Ultimately, the debate over the Epstein files will continue to shape political discussions.
Final Thoughts
The Epstein files story shows how political claims and media responses collide in real time. President Trump’s hoax label drew an immediate CNN fact-check. Yet, the fate of the unreleased documents remains uncertain. As the review process moves forward, Americans await more clarity. With tens of thousands of pages still under wraps, the truth about Epstein’s network may take months to unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Trump call the Epstein files a “Democrat hoax”?
Trump said Democrats pushed the Epstein files release to distract from his administration’s achievements.
How did CNN respond to Trump’s hoax claim?
CNN hosts Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar cut in to correct the record and highlight Trump’s own promise to release the files.
What might the unreleased Epstein files include?
They could contain visitor logs, witness interviews, financial records, and possible name lists linked to Epstein’s island.
When will all Epstein files become public?
The Department of Justice has not set a public deadline but continues to review about 100,000 pages for privacy and legal concerns.