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The legacy of Jeffrey Epstein continues to fuel speculation and suspicion within the MAGA movement, highlighting the ongoing influence of conspiracy theories in Donald Trump’s political base.

In February, conservative commentator Jack Posobiec and other Trump loyalists visited the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington, DC, seeking answers about Epstein. Instead, they were handed documents already in the public domain. Their hopes for new revelations were dashed again in July when the government confirmed there would be no new disclosures.

Disappointed, Posobiec shared his frustration online, criticizing the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein saga. His comments reflect a broader sentiment among MAGA supporters who believe that powerful figures are hiding the truth.

A Conspiracy Touchpoint

Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His associations with high-profile individuals, including Donald Trump and Bill Clinton, have fueled conspiracy theories for years. The idea of a secretive “deep state” protecting elites from justice has become a rallying cry for many in the MAGA community.

Posobiec, who gained notoriety in 2016 for promoting the false “Pizzagate” theory, sees the Epstein case as symbolic of systemic corruption. In a podcast appearance, he argued that it’s less about Epstein as a person, and more about what his case represents: a hidden network controlling society.

Trump’s Delicate Balancing Act

During past campaigns, Trump suggested he would declassify Epstein-related files, a promise that resonated with conspiracy-minded supporters. However, after winning the presidency again, he downplayed the case, calling it “boring” and accusing Democrats of politicizing it.

This shift has frustrated some of his base. Although many remain loyal, a vocal subset is demanding action. The Department of Justice recently reaffirmed that Epstein died by suicide and denied the existence of a secret “client list,” a claim long believed by conspiracy theorists.

Fuel for QAnon

The Epstein case has long been a focal point for QAnon—a conspiracy theory claiming a global child-abusing cabal runs the world. QAnon followers believed Trump would expose and dismantle this network. Epstein was frequently mentioned in cryptic online Q posts dating back to 2017.

Mike Rothschild, an author specializing in conspiracy theories, says Epstein is portrayed as a key figure in this imagined global conspiracy. The belief that the DOJ or FBI is hiding critical information fuels distrust in institutions and loyalty to Trump, even as he distances himself from these theories.

Conspiracy Meets Reality

Despite official statements, some MAGA influencers continue to push Epstein-related narratives. Figures like Tucker Carlson and Posobiec have made unsupported claims linking Epstein to foreign intelligence services. Some of these theories veer into antisemitic territory.

Still, many in the MAGA world are most interested in what Epstein’s connections might reveal about Trump’s political enemies, especially Democrats like Bill Clinton.

A recent report in The Wall Street Journal added new tension by alleging Trump once sent Epstein a risqué birthday greeting. In response, Trump filed a lawsuit against the publication, reiterating that he had long severed ties with Epstein.

In a move that seemed to appease conspiracy theorists, Trump posted on Truth Social that he had asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all grand jury testimony related to Epstein—pending court approval.

Growing Tensions Inside MAGA

QAnon beliefs remain surprisingly common. A recent PRRI survey found that nearly 20% of Americans agree with statements tied to QAnon, including the idea of a satanic elite running a global child-trafficking ring. Most of these believers also support Trump.

But as Trump pulls back from these narratives, some supporters feel betrayed. Rich Logis, a former Trump backer who founded the group “Leaving MAGA,” said this shift has left followers “confused and stunned.”

Influencers in MAGA circles are struggling with how to express their frustration without directly criticizing Trump. Rothschild warns that while Trump might escape their ire, others in the Republican Party could become targets of their disillusionment.

The Road Ahead

Trump continues to support Bondi, Patel, and Bongino—key officials who have been tied to Epstein speculation. But they, too, may come under pressure if MAGA hardliners keep demanding answers that may not exist.

For now, the Epstein case remains a powerful symbol in MAGA circles, capturing long-standing anxieties about hidden power, government secrecy, and elite corruption. Whether fact or fiction, those beliefs show no sign of fading.