In a recent podcast, Ezra Klein shared a satirical story about a conspiracy theorist who, after dying, questions God about who killed John F. Kennedy, only to receive a straightforward answer—Lee Harvey Oswald. This anecdote reflects the current predicament of former President Donald Trump, who is ensnared in the ongoing scandal surrounding Jeffrey Epstein. No matter how much he attempts to distract from this controversy, it only intensifies suspicions about his connections with Epstein.
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that a significant portion of Americans, including 62% of Republicans, believe that the government conceals Epstein’s alleged client list. This skepticism is fueled by the numerous unanswered questions regarding Epstein’s wealth, the contents of computer files retrieved from his properties, and lapses in his jail monitoring following a previous suicide attempt.
Trump’s situation is further complicated by his history of promoting conspiracy theories, which he has done since the “birther” accusations against Barack Obama. Now, as he occupies a position of power within the government he once critiqued, he faces pressure to disclose information yet remains reluctant to do so.
The tradition of conspiracy theories in America is deeply ingrained, evolving through various societal tensions, from the fears of the Founding Fathers to the accusatory tenure of Joseph McCarthy, who claimed that disloyal figures infiltrated the government. In a contemporary context, Anna Merlan’s book, “Republic of Lies,” argues that conspiracy theorists have transitioned from the periphery to the mainstream, with Trump at the forefront, having successfully leveraged conspiratorial narratives to ascend in politics.
Trump now finds himself in a complex scenario; he has previously ignited distrust in elite institutions but must now manage those very institutions as President. His administration has released thousands of documents related to historical assassinations, yet the absence of any damaging revelations regarding former political elites presents a challenge. Acknowledging this could undermine his credibility among his supporters.
Despite being an adept politician capable of gauging his base’s sentiments, the Epstein situation presents unique difficulties for Trump. He has attempted to divert attention by resurrecting old conspiracy theories, such as accusations against Obama, Clinton, and Biden, but these efforts appear increasingly desperate.
With Patel, the FBI director, alleging on a podcast that he has stumbled upon a repository of undisclosed secrets within the FBI, the message seems to shift away from Epstein, towards a plethora of other conspiracy theories aimed at keeping his followers engaged.
Ultimately, Trump’s handling of the Epstein matter may exacerbate public distrust in political institutions and lead to further polarization within the political landscape. He is navigating treacherous waters that could either consume him or result in substantial damage to his political standing.