US President Donald Trump has publicly defended Attorney-General Pam Bondi after she faced backlash from segments of his support base regarding the recent release of a memo concerning Jeffrey Epstein, an accused sex trafficker. Taking to his platform, Truth Social, Trump proclaimed Bondi was excelling in her role and expressed his displeasure with the criticism directed at her. He stressed the importance of unity within the MAGA movement, denouncing those he termed “selfish” for trying to undermine the administration’s achievements due to issues surrounding Epstein.
Internally, Trump has reinforced his backing of Bondi, with advisers reaching out to her critics to encourage them to ease their attacks and clarify that Bondi’s position was secure. However, sources indicate that while support persists, circumstances could always shift.
The release of the memo sparked significant discontent among Trump’s allies, including right-wing activist Laura Loomer, who is demanding Bondi’s dismissal. Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon expressed his concerns during a recent podcast, doubting the administration’s transparency regarding the investigation into Epstein.
The memo’s contentious nature was deemed a “political nightmare” by a Trump adviser, who suggested it should have been released at a less scrutinised time or postponed until after the 2026 midterms. Mediums of right-leaning opinion, like former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, alleged that Bondi was implicated in covering up serious crimes.
Epstein, a financier with numerous high-profile connections, has been a topic of controversial intrigue due to his notorious past as a convicted sex offender. His unexpected death in August 2019 while in custody drew widespread speculation, although local authorities ruled it a suicide. As Trump continues his campaign for 2024, he hinted at the possibility of disclosing more government documents relating to Epstein, a prospect eagerly anticipated by his supporters who speculate it might link other public figures or refute the suicide narrative.
Recently, the Justice Department dismissed claims of Epstein maintaining a “client list” or being murdered, provoking a backlash within MAGA circles. Dismissing questions about the Epstein investigation, Trump expressed his frustration, suggesting it distracted from more pressing issues. He also accused various political adversaries of exploiting Epstein’s legacy, questioning why they hadn’t leveraged any damaging information prior.
Despite these complexities, Trump insists that the focus should be shifted to pressing priorities such as investigating alleged electoral fraud and political corruption rather than the ongoing Epstein inquiries, reaffirming his unwavering support for Bondi’s role. “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE’S GREAT!” he stated, notably downplaying the significance of Epstein in the broader picture.