President Donald Trump publicly defended Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi on Saturday, following criticism from parts of his supporter base regarding her management of the investigation into accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Bondi’s performance as “a FANTASTIC JOB,” emphasizing his support amid ongoing backlash.
Trump’s remarks came after the release of a memo by the Department of Justice, which concluded that there was no evidence Epstein maintained a “client list” or was murdered. This document ignited a significant controversy, particularly among some of Trump’s allies, including right-wing activist Laura Loomer, who has called for Bondi’s removal from her position.
In his social media post, Trump expressed his discontent with the criticism directed at Bondi, stating, “We’re on one Team, MAGA, and I don’t like what’s happening.” He criticized what he viewed as “selfish people” undermining his administration over Epstein’s legacy, referring to Epstein as “somebody that nobody cares about.”
While addressing reporters at the White House earlier this week, Trump dismissed questions regarding Epstein and the memo, saying, “I can’t believe you’re asking a question on Epstein at a time like this.” His frustration resurfaced in his Saturday commentary, where he remarked, “For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again,” suggesting the ongoing focus on Epstein detracted from more pressing issues.
The controversy has also led to tensions within law enforcement. According to CNN, Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino has indicated he may consider resigning due to clashes between the FBI and the Department of Justice concerning the memo’s implications and the subsequent fallout.
Trump also redirected attention to his priorities, urging Kash Patel, the FBI Director, to focus on issues such as alleged voter fraud and political corruption related to the 2020 election. He stated, “Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption… instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein.”
Further, Trump took aim at various political adversaries, including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and former FBI Director James Comey, accusing them of being involved in creating what he termed the “Epstein Files.” He questioned why these individuals had not released any damaging information that could potentially harm the MAGA movement.
As the situation evolves, Trump’s defense of Bondi indicates a desire to consolidate support within his base and reaffirm his administration’s focus on what he views as more critical matters. The ongoing discussions surrounding Epstein’s case and its implications for current political dynamics underscore the lasting complexity of this high-profile investigation.