Donald Trump has called for the release of sealed grand jury transcripts in the Jeffrey Epstein case following a media report alleging he contributed a ‘bawdy’ note to Epstein’s 50th birthday album. The request comes as the former president faces growing scrutiny over past associations with the convicted sex offender.
Pressure mounts over birthday note allegations
The Wall Street Journal reported that a 2003 birthday scrapbook presented to Epstein contained a cartoon allegedly from Trump, featuring a nude sketch and a flirtatious exchange between figures labelled “Donald” and “Jeffrey.” Trump has denied writing the note, calling the story false and politically motivated.
On his social media platform, Trump accused the media of character assassination and threatened legal action against the Journal, News Corp and Rupert Murdoch. The report has added fuel to ongoing speculation surrounding Trump’s historical relationship with Epstein, despite his repeated claims of having severed ties long before Epstein’s 2008 conviction.
Legal strategy shifts toward transparency
In response to the controversy, Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed she has received instructions from Trump to formally petition the court for the release of grand jury materials linked to Epstein’s criminal proceedings. Bondi stated the Justice Department will act “without delay,” arguing that public access to the transcripts is in the national interest.
The move is unprecedented for a sitting or former president and signals an aggressive effort to counter the narrative presented in the media. Legal experts note that such a release would require a judge’s approval and may face resistance depending on the scope and sensitivity of the documents.
Mixed reactions from allies and critics
Reactions from Trump’s political allies have varied. While some Republicans have supported the call for transparency, others privately question the timing and motivation. Vice President JD Vance dismissed the media report as a “smear tactic,” while House Speaker Mike Johnson renewed calls for full disclosure of Epstein-related files, including those unrelated to Trump.
Federal agencies have maintained that no Epstein “client list” exists, and the FBI reiterated in a recent memo that Epstein died by suicide in 2019. Nonetheless, renewed attention on the case has stirred public frustration over perceived secrecy and lingering unanswered questions.
Wider implications and political context
The incident comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity, with Trump campaigning for a return to the White House while fending off multiple legal challenges. The decision to pursue the release of grand jury materials may be intended not only to dispel rumours but also to demonstrate openness in contrast to perceived double standards in media coverage.
Whether the transcripts will be released, and what they contain, remains uncertain. But Trump’s move signals a calculated attempt to confront the Epstein narrative head-on as he reasserts control over the political spotlight.
REFH – Newshub, 18 July 2025
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