Key Takeaways

• Jack O’Donnell says Trump knew what was in the Epstein files all along.
• O’Donnell compares Trump’s drip release to the Catholic Church’s cover-up.
• Victims wait longer when information unfolds slowly.
• The slow release strategy may harm survivors more than help them.

What’s Behind the Epstein Files Delay

On Tuesday, the Justice Department released a fresh batch of long-awaited Epstein files. These documents show President Trump rode Jeffrey Epstein’s plane at least eight times. They also reveal emails and notes that pose political risks for Trump.

Jack O’Donnell, once the president of Trump Plaza, spoke with CNN’s Erin Burnett on “OutFront.” He called the drip-drip-drip release of the files “ridiculous.” He added that Trump must already know the full content, so why drag it out?

However, O’Donnell offered a more pointed critique. He said that this slow reveal reminded him of how the Catholic Church handled sexual abuse claims. He warned that this tactic hurts survivors by prolonging their pain.

Why the Epstein Files Matter

The term Epstein files refers to every report, email, note and picture tied to the FBI’s probe of Jeffrey Epstein. These records are vital because they shed light on his crimes and those around him.

First, they give victims a clearer view of how the abuse happened. They also show who moved in Epstein’s circle. Since Donald Trump once called Epstein a “terrific guy,” these documents may reshape public opinion about their link.

Second, the files influence politics. Every new detail can sway voters and shift media coverage. Therefore, both parties watch each release closely.

Finally, these records build pressure for justice. When the public reads names and dates, demand grows for new investigations. In this way, the Epstein files keep the issue alive.

Inside the Epstein Files Release Strategy

The Justice Department opted for a phased release instead of a full dump. Each round drops a handful of documents, then hush. Then it repeats. This slow drip has one clear goal: keep the story alive in the headlines.

Meanwhile, victims wait and re-live trauma as new facts emerge. They see pieces of their past unveiled bit by bit. According to O’Donnell, that approach is “egregious” and almost intentional. He insisted the process treats survivors poorly.

Unlike a full release, this approach lets officials handle or redact things quietly. It also gives them time to spin each revelation. Each new report draws fresh media attention, but it may delay transparency.

Comparison to the Catholic Church Case

O’Donnell’s comparison to the Catholic Church cover-up feels powerful. For decades, the Church hid evidence of sexual abuse by priests. It shuffled accused staff from parish to parish. It also silenced victims with threats and secrecy.

If the Church had come clean early, it would have faced consequences fast. Instead, it took years for survivors to find justice. Many endured life-long pain as details emerged slowly.

O’Donnell sees the same pattern in these Epstein files. Rather than full disclosure, he argues the government is choosing partial leaks. He believes officials fear the political fallout. In his view, that fear outweighs the survivors’ needs.

Impact on Victims

Survivors of Epstein’s crimes deserve real answers, not slow reveals. They need closure, an end to public scrutiny, and legal steps forward.

However, each new document can reopen old wounds. It can also trigger fresh anxiety as more names arise and more details spill out. Victims report feeling “stuck in the past” with each new release.

Additionally, the piecemeal approach can spread misinformation. When readers see a few emails, they jump to conclusions. They fill gaps with rumors or biased claims. Overall, that hurts victims more than a full and prompt disclosure would.

What Comes Next

The Justice Department plans more releases of the Epstein files over coming months. Each wave will likely include names, flight logs, photos and notes.

Supporters of full transparency call for a single public dump of the entire archive. They believe hiding anything undermines trust in the system. Critics say a full release could harm ongoing investigations or privacy rights.

Yet victims and their advocates stress one point. They want the process to end. They want clarity and closure. If the Epstein files come fully into view, survivors hope the public will rally behind fresh action.

In addition, Congress might step in. Lawmakers could demand a clear timeline or even override any further delays. They could also probe why releases take so long.

Ultimately, how these documents reshape the Epstein story depends on two things: how fast they roll out and how the public reacts to each new detail.

FAQs

Why did the Justice Department release the Epstein files bit by bit?

Officials say the phased approach lets them handle redactions and protect privacy. Critics argue it drags out survivors’ pain and hides full truth.

How many times was Trump on Epstein’s plane?

Documents show President Trump flew on Epstein’s plane at least eight times. Emails within the files confirm several of these trips.

What comparison did Jack O’Donnell make with the Catholic Church?

He said the slow leak of Epstein files reminds him of how the Church hid sexual abuse claims. He believes both choices stretched victims’ suffering.

Could Congress force a full Epstein files release?

Yes. Lawmakers can demand a timeline or open hearings. They may push for a complete release to ensure prompt transparency.