Trump and Rogan Delineate Boundaries: Trump-Epstein Issue Is a No-Go for Rogan
Podcaster Joe Rogan has drawn a "hardline" in his relationship with President Donald Trump over the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. In a recent episode of his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan expressed his discontent with the administration, stating that they are trying to "gaslight" people on the issue.
The controversy surrounding Epstein's investigation began in July, when the Justice Department and FBI released a memo stating they had conducted an exhaustive review of investigative holdings relating to the disgraced financier. The review found no incriminating list of clients who had participated in Epstein's trafficking of girls. However, the agencies' decision not to disclose further information related to the case has sparked criticism and speculation.
Attorney General Pam Bondi fueled speculation about the existence of a list of Epstein's clients by stating that such files were sitting on her desk for review. However, she later clarified that she meant the files related to the case, not a list of names.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche met with Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, for an interview. Blanche has vowed to release information about what he learned during the interview at an "appropriate time." Maxwell continues to appeal her sentence.
Trump has characterised the uproar over the Epstein files as a "scam" and "hoax." In a Cabinet meeting earlier this month, he asked a reporter, "Are you still talking about Jeffrey Epstein?" and criticized those who continue to discuss him. On the campaign trail in 2024, Trump suggested he would release Epstein's client list if returned to office.
Epstein, who had well-documented connections to powerful figures, died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting further sex trafficking charges. The death prompted numerous conspiracy theories.
Rogan and his guest, Mike Baker, discussed the fallout over the Epstein files in depth, with Baker saying, "Just release everything." Rogan has joined voices criticizing the administration's handling of records from the Epstein investigation.
Joe Rogan endorsed Trump in the 2024 presidential election and attended his inauguration. However, the handling of the Epstein investigation appears to have strained their relationship. Rogan told Baker on his podcast that this is a "hardcore line in the sand" and that the administration is trying to "gaslight" people on the issue.
The Trump administration is likely to continue facing pressure over the Epstein case as critics call for transparency and accountability.
