‘I’ll release the Epstein list if elected’: Internet digs up Trump’s vow as DOJ says 'it does not exist'

WASHINGTON, DC: A resurfaced video of President Donald Trump vowing to release the alleged Jeffrey Epstein client list if 're-elected' is gaining traction on social media, reigniting debate and disappointment among his supporters.

The clip, originally from a past interview uploaded on September 3, 2024, is once again circulating widely following the Justice Department’s declaration that no such list exists.

The timing of the video’s resurgence has amplified frustration among many in Trump’s base, who now accuse him of backtracking on promises made during his campaigns.

Online users have called it a betrayal and pointed to a perceived shift in Trump’s stance on the issue since returning to political power.

Resurfaced Trump interview sparks backlash over unmet vow to release Epstein files

The interview in question, from the Lex Fridman Podcast, featuresTrump responding to questions about Epstein and the potential release of related files.

"A lot of big people went to that island but fortunately I was not one of them," Trump said in the video.

When asked about hesitation in addressing Epstein’s case, he responded, "He (Epstein) was a good salesman. He was a hale and hearty type of a guy. He had some nice assets that he'd throw around like islands. But a lot of big people went to that island. But fortunately I was not one of them."

Trump added that while the Epstein files were different from the JFK assassination records, “he would be inclined to release the latter as well as he has no problem.”

The clip has resurfaced across X (formerly known as Twitter), with users accusing Trump of having failed to deliver on his vow.

Internet slams Trump over resurfaced Epstein vow and perceived backtrack

Some users pointed to a recent video where he dismissed discussions of Epstein altogether, including during a Cabinet meeting where he said, “We’re tired of talking about Jeff Epstein.”

Social media commentary has been swift and scathing. “He ran his campaign on this. I truly hope he comes back and tries to make good on it,” one user posted.

Another wrote, “He better think of something quickly because his supporters are not going to like if this stays stagnant like this.”

Others expressed deeper disillusionment: “Once in power, promises don’t mean much anymore.”

“He turned so quickly on us. What a shame,” said another.

One said, “WTF was up with Trump acting like nobody is interested in Epstein? Huge tell.”

Some users suggested the resurfacing of the video reflects a broader pattern of disappointment: “Trump made a lot of promises on that trail that won’t come true… we were supposed to see investigations into corruption… they won’t even arrest the politicians that attack government agents.”

Still, a few supporters pushed back on the outrage. “To be fair he said ‘I would take a look at it,’” one commenter noted.

Another added, “His term is not over…”

Justice Department concludes Epstein did not maintain a ‘client list’

Amid the renewed online uproar, the US Justice Department concluded that Epstein did not maintain a so-called “client list” and that no further investigation was warranted.

According to the memo obtained by Axios, no credible evidence has emerged to suggest Epstein blackmailed anyone or that uncharged third parties should be pursued. The department also released video footage from Epstein’s Manhattan jail cell, asserting it proves no one entered the area the night of his death.

"The FBI enhanced the relevant footage by increasing its contrast, balancing the color, and improving its sharpness for greater clarity and viewability," the memo said.

Officials say the footage supports medical examiners’ conclusion that Epstein died by suicide, a position also backed by FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, both of whom previously questioned the official narrative during their time as MAGA-aligned influencers.

Despite earlier suggestions by Attorney General Pam Bondi that she had a list "sitting on [her] desk," the DOJ and White House later walked that statement back, clarifying she had been referring broadly to Epstein case files.

The department stated that many materials remain under court seal to protect victims and will not be disclosed further.

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