Trump Open to Releasing Epstein Files if Elected, Denies Island Visits

Donald Trump has expressed openness to releasing additional files related to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein should he return to the White House. The former president addressed the topic during a conversation with computer scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman.

When questioned about the absence of a public "list of clients" who had visited Epstein's private island, Trump stated, "It's very interesting, isn't it? It probably will be [released], by the way, probably." He added that he would "certainly take a look at it" and would have "no problem" with its release.

Trump emphasized his lack of involvement with Epstein's island, stating, "I never went to his island, fortunately, but a lot of people did." He described Epstein as a "good salesman" and a "hailing, hearty type of guy" who used his assets, such as islands, to attract powerful individuals.

In January 2024, a significant number of names associated with Epstein were made public when court documents were unsealed in New York. These files included mentions of public figures such as Prince Andrew, former President Bill Clinton, and Trump himself. However, it's important to note that many names were mentioned in passing, and their inclusion does not imply wrongdoing related to Epstein.

The unsealed documents, stemming from a 2015 defamation case, contained depositions, police reports, and emails. While these files did not include a specific "list of clients," they provided insight into Epstein's network of connections.

Trump drew a comparison between the Epstein files and the gradual release of documents related to President John F. Kennedy's assassination. He noted that the JFK files are "very different from the Epstein thing" due to the time that has passed and potential security concerns.

"He had some nice assets that he'd throw around like islands, but a lot of big people went to that island. But fortunately, I was not one of them."

The Epstein case has had far-reaching implications. Following his death in August 2019 at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan, where he was awaiting trial on new charges of trafficking teenage girls, increased scrutiny was placed on sex trafficking and the abuse of minors. Epstein's estate established a victims' compensation fund, and his properties, including his New York mansion, were sold.

The case also led to the conviction of Epstein's associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, for sex trafficking in 2021. It sparked numerous conspiracy theories due to Epstein's high-profile connections and the circumstances surrounding his death, which was ruled a suicide by hanging.

As the discussion around the Epstein case continues, the potential release of additional documents remains a topic of interest, particularly in the context of future political developments.