Trump Faces Growing Rift With Base Over Epstein Files and Bondi Defense
Some of Donald Trump’s most loyal supporters are beginning to question him — and the tipping point is the explosive controversy surrounding the Epstein files and Trump’s defense of Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Epstein Cover-Up? Supporters Say They’re Losing Faith
For years, theories have circulated about Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged “client list” — said to include powerful figures tied to sex trafficking. But last week, those hoping for answers were dealt a blow: Bondi and the Department of Justice denied the existence of any such list and shut down requests for further documents. For many Trump backers, it felt like a betrayal.
Trump Fires Back — But Doubts Linger
Under fire, Trump took to Truth Social to deflect attention.
“For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again,” he posted. “Why are we giving publicity to files written by Obama, Crooked Hillary, Comey, Brennan, and the losers and criminals of the Biden administration?”
Trump urged supporters to move on. But for a growing number of conservatives, his post only deepened the unease.
Fractures Emerge at Student Action Summit
At Turning Point USA’s Student Action Summit, frustrations boiled over. Podcaster Brandon Tatum addressed the crowd bluntly:
“They’re not telling us the truth about Epstein. That guy was involved in something nefarious — and some of the people involved might be our allies.”
The sentiment resonated.
A Broken Promise?
Sharon Allen, 24, traveled to Tampa for the summit. Her message was clear:
“This isn’t about Pam Bondi. We backed Trump because he promised to drain the swamp. Now we’re wondering if he’s protecting it. Fire Bondi, release the files — prove you’re still on our side.”
Approval Ratings Hit a New Low
Recent polling suggests the unease is spreading. According to an ActiVote survey conducted June 1–30, Trump’s approval rating dipped to 45%, with 52% disapproval — his lowest mark of the term, giving him a net approval of -7.
While still higher than his first term’s low of 41%, the slide reflects a shift in sentiment that could cost him key support as the 2026 midterms approach.