• 63% of voters disapprove of Trump's handling of the Epstein investigation.
• 69% believe the government is concealing details about Epstein.
• Trump describes the Epstein inquiry as a "hoax," igniting backlash from both sides.
• Calls for the release of Epstein files are growing bipartisan support.
• The controversy poses risks for Trump in the upcoming 2026 midterms.

The recent Quinnipiac University poll reveals that 63 percent of U.S. voters disapprove of the Trump administration's handling of the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died in jail in 2019. Only 17 percent expressed approval, highlighting a stark divide within the electorate: 83 percent of Democrats and 71 percent of independents are dissatisfied with the findings of the Department of Justice (DOJ), which concluded that Epstein had no client list and died by suicide while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. This dissatisfaction is tempered among Republicans, with a split of 40 percent approval and 36 percent disapproval, further showcasing the contention around the issue, according to The Hill and Reuters.

Furthermore, a Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 69 percent of respondents suspect the government is concealing information regarding Epstein's clients, reflecting heightened scrutiny of the Trump administration's decisions. The poll indicated that 35 percent of Republicans approved of how Trump handled the case, while 29 percent disapproved. Trump's public dismissal of inquiries about Epstein as "a hoax" has sparked backlash within his own party, especially among supporters who expected more transparency, according to Reuters and Newsweek.

Despite bipartisan calls for the release of Epstein's files, the Trump administration remains reticent, creating friction among lawmakers. The Attorney General, Pam Bondi, initially hinted at a list of Epstein's associates but later retracted that assertion, stating no such list exists. This has left many dissatisfied, with polls suggesting that a majority of Trump’s supporters now demand full disclosure. Notably, 83 percent of Trump supporters want all documents related to the Epstein case made public, as reported by Los Angeles Times and Newsweek.

As tensions mount, Trump faces increased scrutiny over his past connections to Epstein, who had a network of powerful associates. The recent scrutiny follows a spate of conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein's death, amid suspicions that significant details have been kept under wraps. While Trump continues to label the inquiry a "hoax," this narrative is being challenged by growing discontent within his base, according to Los Angeles Times and Reuters.