Trump Continues to Mention Epstein Despite Denials, Frustrating Allies and Victims Alike

Former President Donald Trump continues to reference his past associations with Jeffrey Epstein, despite asserting that he cut ties with the convicted financier years earlier. His repeated mentions have kept the controversy active, despite his attempts to move past the issue. CNN analyst Maggie Haberman described Trump as being trapped in a cycle of avoidance and disclosure, stating, "He can't stop talking about it, yet he also wants to stop." The renewed focus on Trump's connection to Epstein follows the Department of Justice's decision not to release certain Epstein-related documents, prompting further media inquiries. Rather than defusing speculation, Trump's actions have contributed to ongoing headlines. He filed a lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal over reports claiming he sent Epstein a playful birthday card in 2003—a claim he denies—yet the legal action only prolonged media attention. Additionally, Trump's Justice Department sent Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to question Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's associate, in prison, and Trump has not ruled out granting Maxwell a pardon. Most recently, Trump claimed that Epstein had "stolen" a teenage employee from his Mar-...