Key Takeaways
- The White House took control of the Justice Department’s social media to shape the Epstein files narrative.
- Officials want to manage headlines about Trump’s links in the newly released documents.
- Critics warn this move undermines the Justice Department’s independence.
- A team of about 200 has reviewed and released 750,000 pages so far.
- Up to 700,000 more pages remain to be reviewed in the Epstein files release.
White House Manages Epstein Files Messaging
The White House has stepped in to run the Justice Department’s account on X. This move aims to steer the public relations battle over the Epstein files. Administration officials worry about damaging headlines. They fear stories about Trump’s presence in the files will not go away. Therefore, the White House now manages posts to shape the message. Many people find this step alarming because it blurs lines between politics and law enforcement.
How the White House Shifted DOJ’s Social Media
First, the White House asked permission to post from the DOJ account. Then, it drafted replies that sounded more like a campaign team. This change marks a shift from a “just-the-facts” tone to a rapid-response style. Posts now respond swiftly to critics and conspiracy theories. Moreover, they aim to debunk rumors and false documents in real time. For example, the DOJ account labeled a fake letter attributed to Epstein as “fake.” It even used a snippy reply calling a reporter a “dope.” Critics say this new edge feels more political than legal.
New Tone in Epstein Files Communications
Under the White House’s guidance, posts about the Epstein files now use sharper language. They also address the media directly. For instance, the account challenged a veteran reporter who asked about redactions. The reply asked if they wanted the DOJ to break the law. This showed the account’s new confidence and willingness to argue. It also highlighted frustration with headlines about Trump’s links. As a result, the messaging feels more like a political war room.
Critics and Political Fallout
Many former officials and lawmakers sounded alarms. They said this takeover destroys the DOJ’s independence. One former Republican congressman called the move “utterly corrupt.” He urged voters to reject every Republican on the ballot in 2026. Other critics said the White House has no right to run an independent agency’s social feeds. Meanwhile, administration insiders admit they feel trapped. They said they cannot explain away Trump’s ties to Epstein. They also blamed Congress for forcing them into this situation. Overall, the political fallout has left many uneasy about the boundary between politics and justice.
The Ongoing Release of Epstein Files
A team of roughly 200 people has been working around the clock. They have already reviewed 750,000 pages tied to Epstein’s case. Up to 700,000 more pages remain under review. However, not all of these pages will see the light of day. Officials say many documents are duplicates. Still, the public should expect thousands more pages soon. Congress set a deadline to finish this review by year’s end. Administration officials believe the process will wrap up in about a week. They also warn that the conspiracy theories will persist long after.
What’s Next for Epstein Files Disclosure
Once the final pages appear, the Justice Department plans to stay on defense. The White House will likely maintain control of the messaging. In the coming days, we can expect more snappy posts rebutting critics. Officials say this crisis has caused “indignation at the media.” They point out that Epstein’s case was once ignored by many outlets. Now, it sits atop news pages every morning. Despite the drama, the review team will push on. They want to meet the congressional mandate and close this chapter.
FAQs
Why did the White House take over the Justice Department’s social media?
The White House wants to manage public response to the Epstein files release. Officials fear negative headlines about Trump’s presence in the documents.
How many pages remain to be reviewed in the Epstein files?
About 700,000 pages are still under review. Many are duplicates, so not all will be released.
Who criticized the White House’s move?
Critics include former lawmakers and reporters. They argue that the takeover undermines the Justice Department’s independence.
Will the Epstein files review end soon?
Yes. Officials expect to finish the document review in about a week. However, debate and conspiracy theories will continue.
