Epstein Files Reveal Extensive Network, Renew Scrutiny of Trump
Newly released government files related to Jeffrey Epstein are offering a wider view into his connections with prominent figures, including former President Donald Trump and raising questions about elite impunity. The Justice Department released an additional 3 million pages of documents on Friday, February 2, 2026, with some 2 million more still unreleased, according to reports.
The files, released after a law compelled the Justice Department to do so, show that Donald Trump is mentioned more than 1,000 times. While some references are benign, others include newly disclosed, unverified sexual assault claims against Trump, as well as details about interactions between Epstein’s victims and the former president. A list of unverified assault allegations against Trump was compiled by FBI officials last year, and FBI notes detail a woman accusing Trump of rape when she was 13, and an instance where Ghislaine Maxwell allegedly “presented” a woman to Trump at a party.
The Justice Department stated Friday that the allegations against Trump contained in the documents were false, and Trump himself has long denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein or allegations of sexual misconduct. Commenting on the release, Trump said he was told by “very important people” that the files “absolve” him, and are “the opposite of what people were hoping.”
The breadth of Epstein’s network is a key feature of the released files. This network includes sitting and former US presidents, Wall Street figures, Ivy League luminaries, Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, foreign government officials, and individuals across the political spectrum. The files reveal that Epstein continued to interact with the rich and famous even after serving time for sex crimes in Florida.
The documents show that the knowledge of Epstein’s 2008 conviction as a sex abuser was widespread. In 2010, magazine editor Tina Brown declined an invitation to an Epstein dinner with Woody Allen and Prince Andrew, stating, “What the fuck is this… ? The paedophile’s ball?” Melinda Gates also reportedly stepped into Epstein’s home once and immediately regretted it. However, such reactions were rare, with figures like the former Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, expressing gratitude for Epstein’s “kindness.”
The files also reveal instances of seemingly casual requests and offers between Epstein and powerful individuals. In 2012, Elon Musk asked Epstein for an invitation to a party on his island, and in 2013, Richard Branson requested Epstein to “bring your harem” to a future meeting. These exchanges suggest a transactional dynamic, with individuals seeking favors or introductions from Epstein.
Attorney Arick Fudali, representing 11 Epstein survivors, described the release of the files as a “perfect storm” of “incompetency and an active cover-up” by the Trump administration, noting that some documents that should have been released were withheld, while others containing unredacted names of survivors were made public.
Despite the flawed release, investigative journalist Vicky Ward noted that the files continue to shed light on a world of elite impunity and excess. The Justice Department has indicated it is unlikely anyone else will be prosecuted in connection with Epstein’s crimes, despite the extensive network revealed in the documents.
The release of the Epstein files has sparked debate about the need for greater transparency and accountability, and whether a culture of shame can be restored. The files highlight the complicity of individuals who enabled Epstein’s behavior, even if they were not directly involved in his crimes.
