Fact Check: Trump mentioned 64 times in epstein files

Fact Check: "Trump mentioned 64 times in Epstein files"

What We Know

The claim that "Trump is mentioned 64 times in Epstein files" has circulated widely, particularly following the release of various documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities. However, a close examination of the available evidence reveals that Donald Trump's name does not appear in the transcripts of the recently unsealed grand jury testimony concerning Epstein's case. According to a report by the Washington Post, the documents released did not include any references to Trump, despite speculation from some political figures. The report states that while Trump and Epstein were part of the same social circle in the past, their relationship soured around 2004, and there is no evidence of inappropriate conduct between them in the released documents.

Analysis

The assertion that Trump is mentioned 64 times in Epstein files appears to stem from a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the actual content of the documents. The Washington Post clarified that while there are numerous photographs and past social interactions between Trump and Epstein, the specific grand jury testimony released does not include Trump's name. Furthermore, Rep. Ted Lieu's comments regarding Trump's alleged connections to Epstein were based on older articles that do not substantiate any wrongdoing by Trump (Washington Post).

Additionally, the claim lacks credible sourcing. The documents that were unsealed primarily focused on the testimonies regarding Epstein's criminal activities, and Trump's name was notably absent. This absence has been confirmed by multiple reputable sources, including investigative journalists who have followed the Epstein case closely (Washington Post, Newsweek).

While there are references to Trump in the context of social interactions and past comments he made about Epstein, these do not equate to evidence of any criminal activity or direct involvement in Epstein's crimes. The Miami Herald journalist Julie K. Brown, who has extensively reported on Epstein, also noted the misinformation surrounding Trump's alleged connections to Epstein, emphasizing that the public often prefers sensational narratives over factual reporting.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that Donald Trump is mentioned 64 times in Epstein files is false. The released documents do not contain any references to Trump, and the speculation surrounding his name appears to be based on misinterpretations and unverified claims. The evidence indicates that while Trump and Epstein were once acquaintances, there is no substantiated link between Trump and Epstein's criminal activities as per the available records.

Fact Check: Trump mentioned 64 times in epstein files