‘He’s dead, he’s gone’: Trump tries to move on from Epstein by blaming Democrats

Political Fallout for the Republican Party - The Republican party faces internal division due to the Epstein files controversy, potentially impacting support for President Trump and creating opportunities for Democratic attacks [19][20][21] - Some Republicans in MAGA-heavy districts may face political consequences in the midterms if they don't call for the release of the Epstein files [15] - Speaker Johnson is in a tough position, attempting to balance appealing to the Republican base with maintaining support for President Trump [10][11] Trump's Relationship with His Base - President Trump is tackling the blowback over the Epstein files in a way that targets his own followers, a departure from his usual tactics [1][6] - There is a sense of disillusionment among some in Trump's base who feel he is not keeping promises regarding the Epstein files [5] - The administration points to policy achievements to counter disillusionment, while Trump views the Epstein case as old news [6] The Epstein Files and Transparency - The release of the Epstein files is complicated by concerns about erroneously blaming innocent people [14] - A key point of contention is the definition of "credible information" regarding the files, with some wanting all information released [13][14] - Democrats are seizing on the division within the Republican party caused by the Epstein files to undermine Trump's support [20][21] Bondi and the Department of Justice - President Trump is standing behind Attorney General Bondi but has seemingly positioned her to take the blame if the Epstein issue persists [7] - Bondi's absence from a White House event related to fentanyl penalties raises questions about her involvement and potential desire to avoid scrutiny [8][9]