The Epstein file controversy reignites as California Governor Gavin Newsom calls out President Donald Trump over recent comments. Newsom, a Democrat, raised fresh questions about Trump’s past connection to Jeffrey Epstein and his refusal to release case-related documents.
In a new podcast appearance, Newsom challenged Trump’s administration for backtracking on promises. Trump had vowed to release files connected to Epstein’s case during his presidential campaign. However, his administration later dismissed the need, claiming no “client list” exists.
Newsom appeared on the Shawn Ryan Show this week. He pointed to a deleted post by Elon Musk that accused Trump of hiding information. Musk said Trump “is in the Epstein files,” and claimed that’s why the documents haven’t surfaced.
“When Elon put that out, I thought it was a big tell,” Newsom said. He suggested Musk’s comments exposed something larger. Newsom also noted the well-documented relationship between Trump and Epstein, citing photos and videos.
Attorney General Pam Bondi initially said a client list existed. She later walked back the statement. Bondi claimed she meant the Epstein case file, not an actual list of names.
Trump has aggressively downplayed the situation. On Truth Social, he labeled the renewed scrutiny “the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax.” He claimed his critics are pushing a fake narrative to distract from his achievements.
“They fell for another hoax,” Trump wrote. “These weaklings are doing the Democrats’ work.”
Despite his earlier pledge, Trump now appears unwilling to revisit the Epstein matter. He told reporters the case is “boring” and that “only bad people” still care. He defended Pam Bondi, saying she could release anything “credible,” but didn’t push for action.
Newsom fired back on social media. He asked why Republicans are blocking files that supposedly don’t exist. “Why try so hard to block a list that ‘doesn’t exist’?” he posted.
He also mocked Trump’s dismissal of the controversy. After Trump posted about Coca-Cola using cane sugar, Newsom sarcastically replied, “Oh thank God! I’ve totally forgotten about the Epstein files now!”
In another post, Newsom shared an image of Trump and Epstein together. He quoted lyrics from Nickelback: “Look at this photograph.” “Nickelback said it best,” he wrote.
The Epstein file controversy reignites amid rising tension between GOP factions. Some Republicans want transparency. Others prefer to move on. Trump has made clear which side he’s on.
Still, Newsom shows no sign of backing down. He continues pressing for answers, especially as Republicans shut down new efforts to unseal the files.
The Epstein file controversy reignites not just online, but on Capitol Hill. With more leaders weighing in, this issue could grow louder in the months ahead.
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