Image of Donald Trump Among Epstein Files Reposted After Temporary Removal
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) released the Epstein files, which include an image of Donald Trump found among documents in a desk drawer. The image features two photos: one shows Trump with women in swimsuits, and the other, partially obscured, includes Melania Trump, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Jeffrey Epstein.
One of at least sixteen documents was reportedly missing from the initial Friday release. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee specifically highlighted the missing Trump image on Saturday. Sky News noted that the Trump image disappeared in an initial online download but later reappeared in the latest DOJ release, with file ending 468 listed again as of Sunday evening.
The DOJ explained that the image had been temporarily removed for review to protect victims. After the review, officials stated there is no evidence that any victims are depicted in the image. It was reposted without any alteration or redaction.
The broader Epstein file release contains many redactions intended to protect more than 1,200 identified victims and their families. Critics, including Democrats and legal experts, argue that the partial release undermines transparency. Some have alleged a White House cover-up and criticized the redaction practices.
US Attorney Jay Clayton acknowledged that the review process is vulnerable to machine or human error. The DOJ redacted faces of women in photos even when they were not all confirmed victims, citing practicality and difficulties in identification.
There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by those pictured in the images. Donald Trump has not commented on the release.
