Trump Calls Epstein Case a ‘Democratic Hoax,’ Urges FBI Investigation

President Donald Trump is urging the FBI to investigate what he has labeled the “Jeffrey Epstein hoax,” asserting that the case has been politically manipulated by Democrats to mislead the public and undermine Republican credibility.

In a phone interview aired Wednesday on Real America’s Voice, Trump claimed that recent developments in the Epstein case—particularly a Department of Justice memo declaring Epstein’s death a suicide and denying the existence of a long-rumored client list—were designed to misdirect and disappoint conservative expectations.

“This whole thing was crafted by the Democrats,” Trump said. “It’s just like all the other scams they’ve run. And some Republicans, frankly, are falling for it. We have to stop being so naive.”

The former president’s remarks came in response to host John Solomon’s question about whether Trump would consider appointing a special prosecutor to investigate multiple alleged abuses by federal agencies. Trump said the Epstein case should be part of any broader probe, claiming it had been mishandled or possibly covered up during the Biden administration’s four-year tenure.

“I think they should look into all of it,” Trump said. “The Epstein situation, too. That’s just another scam. People were expecting truth, justice—and what they got instead was a watered-down report with no accountability.”

Fallout Over DOJ Memo

The controversy reignited last week when the Department of Justice released a statement reiterating its conclusion that Epstein died by suicide in federal custody in 2019 and that there was no evidence of a so-called “client list” of high-profile individuals connected to his alleged trafficking operation.

The memo frustrated many Trump supporters, some of whom believed that explosive details were being suppressed. Those beliefs were amplified by earlier remarks from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had suggested in February that Epstein’s list “was sitting on my desk.”

Trump allies, including Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino and Director Kash Patel—both of whom previously served as conservative commentators—had made the Epstein investigation a centerpiece of their criticism of the Justice Department during the Biden years. Now, sources suggest both men are privately unhappy with how the matter has been handled since returning to official roles under Trump.

According to a person familiar with internal discussions, Bongino has expressed frustration about how the records were managed and has reportedly clashed with DOJ officials over the lack of transparency. Though these reports remain unofficial, they add to growing rumors of discontent within Trump’s law enforcement leadership.

Bongino and Patel React

During a press stop at Joint Base Andrews on Sunday, Trump was asked about Bongino’s current role and whether the two had discussed the case. Trump confirmed they had spoken that day.

“Dan Bongino is a great guy, very sharp. I know him well and trust him completely,” Trump said. “He’s doing fine. He sounded good when we spoke. I think he’s just frustrated like the rest of us.”

Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel took to social media to address rumors that he might resign in protest if Bongino stepped down.

“The conspiracy theories just aren’t true,” Patel posted on X. “It’s an honor to serve President Donald Trump, and I’ll continue to do so for as long as I’m asked.”

Patel’s post was seen as an effort to calm speculation about cracks forming inside Trump’s FBI leadership team, particularly as pressure mounts over how the Epstein file is being handled.

A Missed Opportunity?

Many conservative voices have voiced disappointment that after years of anticipation, the Epstein case has yet to yield the disclosures they had hoped for. Some saw Trump’s return to the White House as a chance to reveal what they believe is a deep web of elite corruption. But the DOJ’s recent statement—and lack of new information—has left those expectations unmet.

“It’s time we stopped playing defense and start asking the real questions,” Trump said during the Real America’s Voice segment. “Who are they protecting? What are they hiding? And why are so many Republicans silent?”

Trump also criticized the broader Republican establishment, saying too many within the party “lack the stamina” to stand firm under pressure.

“The Democrats are a mess when it comes to policy and leadership,” Trump said. “But one thing they do—they stick together. Republicans need to learn from that and stop caving in.”

What’s Next?

With tensions rising inside the administration and among Trump’s base, calls for transparency and accountability continue to grow. Whether the Epstein case will see further investigation—or fade into political gridlock—remains uncertain. But Trump made one thing clear: he isn’t ready to let the matter go.

“They thought they could just sweep this under the rug,” he said. “But we’re not done asking questions. Not even close.