Former US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after criticising a journalist's demeanour during a tense exchange about victims of Jeffrey Epstein. The incident occurred when CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins pressed Trump on what he would say to survivors of Epstein's abuse who feel they have not received justice.
Trump's Personal Attack on Reporter
In response to Collins' questioning, Trump launched a personal attack, stating: 'What did you say? You know, you are the worst reporter. You know, she's a young woman. I don't think I've ever seen you smile. I've known you for ten years. I don't think I've ever seen a smile on your face.'
When Collins maintained her focus on the Epstein survivors, Trump bitterly retorted: 'You know why you're not smiling? Because you know you're not telling the truth. And you're a very dishonest organisation, and they should be ashamed of you.'
Epstein Files Dismissed as 'Boring'
This confrontation comes just days after the release of three million additional documents related to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Trump told reporters it was 'really time' for the country to move on from the case, dismissing revelations about his Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and former friend Elon Musk appearing in the latest batch of files with the comment: 'I'm sure they're fine.'
The former president suggested the nation should focus on other issues, stating: 'I think it's time now for the country to maybe get onto something else like health care. Something that people care about.'
Complete Reversal on Epstein Promises
Trump's current rhetoric represents a complete reversal from his 2024 presidential campaign platform, where he repeatedly promised to release the Epstein client list. After making the files a central talking point during his campaign, Trump has since pivoted dramatically, calling the case 'pretty boring stuff' and even claiming it was a 'Democratic hoax'.
Growing Republican Dissent
The US leader now faces significant political pressure as members of his own party turn against him following delays in releasing the Epstein files. Republican lawmakers including Marjorie Taylor Greene, Nancy Mace, and Ted Cruz have taken stances against Trump's handling of the matter.
Notably, Mace and Greene joined every Democrat to sign a petition that pushed the Epstein files bill through for approval, demonstrating unprecedented bipartisan cooperation on this sensitive issue.
Former Supporters Express Disillusionment
The discontent extends beyond political circles to Trump's former voter base. Adam, a 25-year-old who previously supported Trump, expressed frustration to Metro last year: 'Trump promised us law and order, then went to pardon a bunch of rich scammers and paedophiles. It's all just so exhausting at this point.'
This growing disillusionment among once-loyal supporters and Republican lawmakers suggests significant political fallout from Trump's handling of the Epstein case and his contradictory positions on justice for victims.
