'Victims Or Whatever': Trump Spreads Epstein Files Lies While DOJ Faces Backlash From Traumatised Women

Donald Trump has come under renewed scrutiny after referring to survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell's crimes as 'victims or whatever' while discussing potential public hearings about the case. His remarks have prompted pushback from survivors and their advocates, who say his comments misrepresent their efforts to co-operate with authorities.

While answering questions about whether Epstein survivors should testify before Congress, the US president said he was open to the idea but added: 'I'm okay with that. But I understand the women didn't want to go under oath.' He continued: 'That's what I heard, that the victims or whatever, they refused to go under oath.'

The Real Story Behind Survivor Co‑operation

The suggestion that Epstein's victims refused to testify under oath is disputed by survivors and their representatives. They note that many women have already provided extensive information to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), agencies that many argue have failed to handle the investigation properly.

Congress is not the primary venue for such testimonies; survivors are generally expected to give their accounts to the DOJ. Advocates say the idea that they are avoiding their responsibilities mischaracterises their involvement.

A group of 13 survivors recently released a joint statement responding to the administration. They highlighted that they have 'already demonstrated remarkable bravery by coming forward, filing reports, and providing testimonies'. They argued that demanding further public testimony in a highly politicised environment risks diverting attention from questions of accountability.

Survivors Say Burden Is Being Shifted Away From Officials

The survivors' statement was initially a response to First Lady Melania Trump, who called for Congress to hold public hearings while distancing herself from Epstein and Maxwell. The survivors said this approach shifts the burden onto them rather than on officials and institutions.

They specifically criticised the DOJ, law enforcement prosecutors and the Trump administration, noting that the administration has yet to fully comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

Survivors including Maria and Annie Farmer have said they want accountability, transparency and justice. They have criticised the government for what they describe as long-standing mismanagement of the case, including claims that officials have ignored survivors and refused to release complete FBI records dating back to 1996.

Ongoing Pressure On Federal Response

Trump's 'victims or whatever' remark has drawn further attention to the federal government's handling of the Epstein case. Advocates say the DOJ and the FBI already hold extensive information provided by survivors and should focus on acting on that material.

They argue that additional congressional hearings are not necessary at this stage and could delay progress, while potentially causing further distress to those who have already given detailed accounts of their experiences.