WASHINGTON, July 18: The controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein escalated after The Wall Street Journal reported on a 2003 letter bearing Trump’s name, found in a birthday album for Epstein. The letter included crude drawings and a provocative message to Epstein. Trump denied writing it, calling the report “false, malicious, and defamatory,” and vowed to sue the newspaper. This follows growing frustration over the Trump administration’s failure to release promised documents from the Epstein sex trafficking investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s recent reversal on releasing more files has sparked backlash from Trump’s supporters and raised tensions on Capitol Hill.
Trump insists he had a falling-out with Epstein years ago, despite video footage from 1992 showing them at a party at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, surrounded by young women. The letter’s revelation reignited questions about the nature of their relationship. Trump has been criticized for blocking further transparency and for blaming Democrats, without evidence, for allegedly doctoring files related to Epstein’s case.
The Justice Department’s handling of the Epstein investigation has caused rifts within the administration, particularly between Bondi and FBI officials. Despite calls for a special counsel to investigate, the White House has ruled out appointing one. The ongoing Epstein saga presents a persistent challenge for Trump, with both internal and public pressure mounting. (AP)
