Trump’s headache: How to handle Epstein scandal, US officials in huddle to find a way

Officials from the Trump administration are set to meet on Wednesday to discuss the growing controversy surrounding the government’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case and the alleged mention of US President Donald Trump’s name in the matter, CNN reported.

The decision comes as pressure mounts from Congress, victims of abuse, and politicians from both parties who are demanding transparency.

According to CNN, the meeting is set to take place at Vice President JD Vance’s residence and will include Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.

Whereas, Questions remain over how federal authorities dealt with the Epstein case, which carries serious political, legal, and social implications.

Pressure on Trump admin

Critics, including victim advocates and lawmakers, have raised concerns over withheld files. This has increased pressure on the administration to strike a balance between transparency, privacy, and legal procedure. The case could influence public trust in federal agencies and even affect the 2026 midterm elections.

This comes after Blanche interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex offender and long-time Epstein associate. CNN reports the group aims to form a “unified response” regarding the next steps in the case.

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According to the report, the administration views this group as the key team managing the issue. A release of materials from the Blanche-Maxwell interviews could happen this week, with early discussions about holding a press briefing or giving major media interviews.

Maxwell’s lawyer said she answered all questions under limited immunity, naming about 100 individuals allegedly linked to Epstein. Her unusual transfer to a lower-security prison in Texas took place just before the meeting was scheduled.

‘Totally aboveboard’

Trump defended the Blanche-Maxwell interview, saying it was “totally aboveboard” and meant to protect those wrongly accused: “Blanche wants to make sure that people that should not be involved or aren’t involved are not hurt by something that would be very, very unfortunate, very unfair to a lot of people.”

He also said, “I want to release everything; I just don’t want people to get hurt.”