Trump Responds to Epstein Investigation with Obama Allegations

 
During a White House meeting on Tuesday, July 22, with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., former U.S. President Donald Trump sidestepped questions regarding the Justice Department’s renewed interest in the Jeffrey Epstein case. Instead, Trump shifted the conversation to allegations of political interference under former President Barack Obama’s administration.

When asked about reports that the Justice Department is arranging a meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell — Epstein’s longtime associate currently serving a sentence for sex trafficking — Trump offered a brief response, saying the move “sounds appropriate,” but added, “I don’t really follow that too much.”

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had earlier confirmed the department’s intent, stating they were pursuing “all credible evidence” related to Epstein’s criminal network.

Rather than elaborate on the Epstein investigation, Trump used most of his Oval Office remarks to attack Obama-era intelligence officials. He cited recent claims by former congresswoman and intelligence community figure Tulsi Gabbard, who alleged that political manipulation of intelligence occurred during Obama’s presidency.

“It’s the most unbelievable thing I’ve ever read,” Trump said, dismissing the Epstein matter as a “distraction” and “nonsense.” He added, “You ought to take a look at that and stop talking about nonsense.”

Following the meeting, Trump announced via social media a 19% tariff on imported goods from the Philippines while waiving tariffs on U.S. exports to the country — a move that stirred mixed reactions among trade analysts.

Meanwhile, the Epstein case continues to cause division in Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson announced an early adjournment for the August recess, canceling votes scheduled for later in the week. The decision comes amid ongoing Republican infighting and a deadlock in the House Rules Committee over Democratic demands for greater transparency into the Epstein investigation.

Despite past associations with Epstein, Trump has repeatedly dismissed the renewed focus on the case as a politically driven “witch hunt.” He has declined to comment directly on calls for more information surrounding Epstein’s death and alleged criminal operations.