Fact-Check: Was Joe Rogan slamming Trump regarding Epstein files?
What We Know
On July 25, 2025, Joe Rogan, a prominent podcaster and former supporter of Donald Trump, criticized the Trump administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files during an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan described the administration's lack of transparency as "gaslighting" and referred to the situation as "a line in the sand" for many of Trump's supporters (ABC News, Independent). He expressed frustration over the administration's refusal to release more information about Epstein, a convicted sex offender whose connections to powerful individuals have fueled numerous conspiracy theories (CNN, The Hill).
Rogan's comments came in the context of a memo released by the Trump administration, which dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein's death and stated that no further information would be disclosed (ABC News, Independent). This memo angered many Trump supporters, including Rogan, who felt that the administration was not living up to its promise of transparency (Independent, USA Today).
Analysis
Rogan's statements reflect a significant shift in his stance towards Trump, as he has previously been a vocal supporter of the former president. His use of the term "gaslighting" indicates a strong disapproval of how the Trump administration has managed the Epstein files, suggesting that the administration is misleading its supporters about the seriousness of the issue (ABC News, CNN).
The sources reporting on Rogan's comments are generally credible, including major news outlets like ABC News, CNN, and The Independent, which have established reputations for journalistic integrity. However, the interpretation of Rogan's statements can vary depending on the outlet's political leanings. For instance, outlets with a more conservative bias may downplay Rogan's criticisms, while those with a liberal bias may emphasize them (The Hill, USA Today).
Rogan's remarks have resonated with a segment of the public that is frustrated with perceived governmental opacity regarding high-profile cases like Epstein's. His comments also highlight a growing discontent among some of Trump's supporters, who feel that the administration has not adequately addressed issues that matter to them (Independent, ABC News).
Conclusion
The claim that Joe Rogan slammed Trump regarding the Epstein files is True. Rogan explicitly criticized the Trump administration for its handling of the Epstein investigation, labeling it as "gaslighting" and expressing frustration over the lack of transparency. His comments indicate a significant departure from his previous support for Trump, reflecting a broader discontent among some of the former president's supporters regarding the administration's actions related to the Epstein case.
Sources
- Joe Rogan slams Trump administration over Epstein ...
- Joe Rogan Destroys Trump Over Epstein Silence
- Joe Rogan accuses Trump of ‘gaslighting’ over the Epstein ...
- Joe Rogan isn't letting go of Epstein — that's a problem for ...
- Joe Rogan says Trump administration is gaslighting ...
- Joe Rogan says Donald Trump is 'gaslighting' supporters over ...
- Joe Rogan accuses Trump administration of "gaslighting" ...
- Joe Rogan says Trump admin is 'trying to gaslight you' over ...