• Trump labels supporters demanding Epstein files as "weaklings" and a "hoax."
• The President criticizes Republicans, claiming they are aiding Democrats.
• Growing tensions within the GOP as calls for transparency escalate.
• Elon Musk and House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly challenge Trump's stance on Epstein.
• Trump defends Attorney General Pam Bondi amid fallout over Epstein-related documents.

President Donald Trump has escalated his rhetoric against members of his own party who continue to demand the release of documents relating to the late Jeffrey Epstein, labeling such calls a "hoax" perpetrated by Democrats. In a series of social media posts, Trump stated that those questioning his administration's handling of the Epstein case have "bought into this 'bulls—,' hook, line, and sinker," branding them as "weaklings" and asserting that he no longer wants their support. He emphasized, "Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats' work, don’t even think about talking of our incredible and unprecedented success" according to Indiatimes, AA, and Los Angeles Times.

This unprecedented attack reflects a significant divide within Trump's base, as key figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly diverge from Trump’s stance. Johnson has called for the release of all Epstein-related files, arguing for transparency and accountability. He suggested that Attorney General Pam Bondi "needs to come forward and explain" her previous assertions that there was a "client list" connected to Epstein, which the Justice Department has since denied, according to The Hill and Al Jazeera.

The backlash to Trump's dismissive remarks has intensified as influential voices like Elon Musk amplified criticisms, suggesting that the refusal to release documents may be hiding sensitive information implicating Trump himself. Musk remarked on social media, "Not a single Epstein client has been prosecuted," adding skepticism to the narrative that the Epstein files are a partisan fabrication, according to ABC News and AA.

Trump’s communication strategy has not quelled the demands for clarity over the Epstein files, which may hold potentially damaging information about elite connections to the convicted sex offender. The U.S. Department of Justice recently reaffirmed, with significant implications for Trump’s political future, that Epstein had no "client list," further complicating the narrative surrounding his administration's handling of the case, according to BBC News and Dawn.

The internal rift among Republicans underscores a challenging environment for Trump as he prepares for upcoming elections, with calls for a special counsel rising amidst skepticism of his administration's record. Rep. Jasmine Crockett pointed out the unusual nature of Trump's remarks considering his past friendships with Epstein, claiming this could be a strategy to deflect from scrutiny, as detailed by HuffPost.