For months, Trump had worked quietly behind the scenes to block the release of Epstein-related files. He reportedly lobbied Republicans to stop a House petition that aimed to make the documents public. Then, almost overnight, Trump changed his tune.

 

 

 

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel isn’t buying President Donald Trump’s sudden shift on the release of documents and files tied to Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and convicted sex offender once counted among Trump’s acquaintances. “Something smells fishy,” Kimmel joked during Tuesday’s broadcast.

 

For months, Trump had worked quietly behind the scenes to block the release of Epstein-related files. He reportedly lobbied Republicans to stop a House petition that aimed to make the documents public. Then, almost overnight, Trump changed his tune urging Congress to allow the release. The House complied with a staggering 427-1 vote and the Senate followed suit with unanimous approval.

 

“The goal was to pass the bill by such a huge margin that Trump couldn’t just swipe it away with his little orange thumb,” Kimmel quipped. This was a reference at Trump’s infamous self-described power. “But don’t get it twisted. This isn’t the end. If anyone thinks all Epstein files are about to see the light of day, I have a beautiful East Wing of the White House to sell you.”

The reference drew laughs as Kimmel reminded viewers that the East Wing had recently undergone bulldozing to make way for a new, sprawling ballroom.

Despite the overwhelming congressional votes, Kimmel explained that there are still ways for Trump and his allies to slow down, or even stop, the files from full release.

“The Department of Justice still has the ability to withhold information,” he said. “They can cite ongoing investigations, protect ‘innocent’ people, or even national security concerns.” His tone, dripping with irony, added, “But of course, they would never misuse that power, right? They’re sworn to uphold the Constitution.”

Kimmel also pointed out that just days before Trump’s sudden embrace of transparency, the Justice Department launched a new probe into Epstein. Critics argue this could serve as a smokescreen to delay the release of sensitive files.

“Even after Congress votes nearly unanimously, the DOJ can still withhold documents, photos, and videos,” he added.

The host didn’t hold back on mocking Trump’s flip-flop. “Trump changed his mind faster than that dog Ghislaine Maxwell gets to play with in her country club prison,” he quipped.

Maxwell, Epstein’s former associate, is serving a 20-year sentence for grooming underage girls. She was recently moved to a minimum-security prison in Texas, reportedly receiving perks including a service puppy after telling Justice officials she had never seen Trump in any inappropriate situations. The Statesman