In recent remarks, US President Donald Trump articulated his reasons for severing ties with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, detailing instances when he felt betrayed after Epstein employed individuals who were formerly associated with Trump. Although Trump refrained from specifying the roles of these individuals or their workplaces, he emphasised that Epstein’s behaviour was unacceptable, stating that he had expelled him from his Florida golf club for being “creepy.”
Trump’s comments provide further insight into his past statements regarding his relationship with Epstein, who was known for his involvement in serious criminal activities and died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. The President’s communications director, Steven Cheung, supported Trump’s stance, asserting the former president’s decision was based on Epstein’s inappropriate conduct.
Questions about Epstein’s mysterious death have long hovered over Trump and his allies, particularly as conspiracy theories surrounding the incident have circulated. The Justice Department’s confirmation of suicide has not quelled scrutiny, with Trump previously pledging to release pertinent documents related to the case, a promise that remains unfulfilled.
The implications of Epstein’s past continue to haunt Trump, with protests directed at Vice President JD Vance occurring as he promoted tax policies in Ohio, highlighting public discontent over perceived associations with Epstein-like behaviour. The protests included signs critical of Vance’s assumed connections to safeguarding paedophiles.
While speaking in Scotland alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump stated that his previous friendship with Epstein had deteriorated due to inappropriate actions on Epstein’s part. Trump conveyed his frustrations regarding Epstein’s recruitment of his former employees and affirmed, “I threw him out… I’m glad I did.”
Trump’s administration is currently pursuing the public release of grand jury transcripts related to Epstein’s case, although one request has already been declined by a judge. Vance, addressing reporters, reiterated Trump’s commitment to transparency regarding the Epstein matter, promising to obtain and disclose all credible information tied to the case.
Trump had previously described his connection to Epstein as dated, highlighting that the two had fallen out some 15 years ago. He also refuted claims suggesting he participated in creating a collection of messages and drawings for Epstein’s birthday, categorically stating, “I don’t do drawings of women,” amidst continuing scrutiny of their past association.