‘Real slap in the face’: Trump turns on MAGA loyalists over Epstein

Political Landscape & MAGA Divide - The MAGA fault line is widening due to President Trump's comments about his supporters regarding the Epstein files [1] - Elon Musk's X is fueling theories and dividing the MAGA base [2] - Some MAGA loyalists are breaking with President Trump over the Epstein issue [2][3] - Steve Bannon suggests that if the cover-up continues, 10% of the MAGA base could walk away, potentially leading to significant losses in future elections (40 seats in 2026 and the presidency in 2028) [9] - The MAGA base perceives Trump as defending the establishment, contradicting his anti-establishment image [11] Potential Impact on Elections - A depressed MAGA base could be bad news for Republicans in the upcoming midterms [13] - The Republican party heavily relies on its base to get elected [13] Epstein Controversy & Victims - The DOJ memo stated Epstein harmed over 1,000 victims [15] - The victims, particularly underage girls, have often been overlooked in the narrative [16][17] - The 2008 nonprosecution agreement was made without consulting the victims [16]