CNN panel erupts after podcaster calls Trump’s alleged Epstein 'cover‑up' bigger than Watergate

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: A late-night CNN panel discussion grew contentious on Tuesday, December 23, as guests spoke over one another during a debate about the release of newly published Jeffrey Epstein-related records.

The heated exchange occurred on 'NewsNight with Abby Phillip', where a discussion of the Epstein files escalated after a liberal commentator accused the Trump administration of participating in a broad cover-up.

Adam Mockler, a commentator affiliated with MeidasTouch, criticized the handling of the document release and accused Attorney General Pam Bondi of intentionally limiting disclosure to protect President Donald Trump.

Adam Mockler claims government cover‑up 'larger than Watergate'

Mockler argued that the Republicans’ approach to releasing the Epstein records amounted to what he described as an unprecedented suppression of information.

"The government cover-up has been even larger than Watergate," Mockler said during the segment.

His remarks prompted an immediate response from Joe Borelli, the Republican minority leader of the New York City Council, who interrupted to challenge the claim.

"Hold on, let me hear you say it," Borelli said. "There is no evidence in any of these documents that links Donald Trump to t******king."

Joe Borelli presses Adam Mockler on evidence against Trump 

The exchange intensified as Mockler and Borelli spoke simultaneously, with Mockler citing a specific anecdote mentioned in the released materials.

"Have you seen the Epstein email where Trump walked into a pane of glass because he was watching young girls in a pool?" Mockler asked.

Borelli repeatedly pressed Mockler to clarify whether any document directly accused Trump of criminal conduct.

"Was there any evidence that Donald Trump committed any crimes?" Borelli asked.

Mockler ultimately acknowledged that the released files did not contain evidence of criminal wrongdoing by Trump.

"No evidence," he admitted.

Tezlyn Figaro says 'it's your turn to say something'

Podcast host Tezlyn Figaro then entered the discussion, arguing that the absence of direct evidence did not resolve broader concerns surrounding the Epstein files.

She said that the presence of redactions and withheld material made it impossible to determine what evidence may still exist.

"It’s your turn to say something to me," Figaro said. "We don’t know what evidence there is, because you have not released all the files."

Figaro emphasized her point by repeatedly tapping the desk as she spoke.

"Say it with me," she added.

Borelli responded by saying he supported the eventual release of all documents.

"We are gonna get all the files released, and then I’ll say it with you," he said, bringing the exchange to a close.

GOP leader slams airball accusations 

Earlier in the segment, Borelli criticized what he described as Democratic efforts to use the Epstein files to manufacture controversy around Trump.

"Isn’t it embarrassing to have a party so focused on the Epstein documents," Borelli said, comparing the allegations to missed shots in a basketball game.

He also referenced a recently debunked letter that was falsely attributed to Epstein and alleged to have been sent to former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar.

The Department of Justice later confirmed that the letter was a forgery, noting that it was postmarked from Virginia days after Epstein had already died in federal custody in New York.

The panel segment concluded without further resolution.