The defense
“Democrats are just using this to attack him.”
Strong evidenceWhat the record shows
The Epstein Files Transparency Act passed the House 427–1. It was co-authored by Republican Thomas Massie and Democrat Ro Khanna. 74% of Republicans support releasing the files, according to polling. The Carroll verdict was rendered by a federal jury of 6 men and 3 women — not by Democrats. The appeals court that affirmed the verdict consists of appointed federal judges who reviewed legal arguments, not political operatives.
Last updated November 3, 2026
Other common defenses
- “He was never charged with anything.”
- “The allegations are unverified — just accusations.”
- “He banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago.”
- “He cooperated with investigators.”
- “The DOJ said the claims against Trump are false.”
- “The Carroll case was thrown out / is still being appealed.”
- “Why didn't Carroll report it at the time?”
- “Where can I read the Epstein files?”
- “The Epstein files didn't prove anything about Trump.”
- “A jury didn't specifically find him guilty of rape.”