The Epstein files have triggered an extraordinary split between Donald Trump and a large section of his own political base, with 82 per cent of MAGA Republicans reportedly saying the files should be released in their entirety.
The figure, cited by Michael Popok from polling shared by Representative Thomas Massie, places MAGA supporters alongside 83 per cent of Republicans, 86 per cent of independents and 90 per cent of Democrats who support full release.
MAGA Voters Back Full Epstein Release
The figures have intensified attention on Trump's handling of the Epstein files, particularly because support for releasing them extends well beyond Democratic voters.
The polling cited by Legal AF host Michael Popok showed that 82 per cent of MAGA Republicans wanted the files released in full. Among Republicans overall, the figure was 83 per cent, while 86 per cent of independents and 90 per cent of Democrats backed release.
A survey has similarly found strong support among MAGA Republicans, reporting that 82 per cent supported releasing the files. The survey also found substantial majorities across other political groups.
Popok highlighted that point on Legal AF, saying, 'I've never seen an issue that has so unified the American people.'
Trump's Epstein Comments Fuel the Backlash
During a July 2025 Cabinet meeting, a reporter asked Attorney General Pam Bondi about Epstein-related questions before Trump interrupted and asked, 'Are you still talking about Jeffrey Epstein?' He then questioned why the subject continued to receive attention. The exchange was widely circulated and prompted criticism from some Trump supporters.
Trump has denied wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. Being mentioned in Epstein-related documents does not, by itself, establish criminal conduct, and Trump has not been charged with a crime relating to Epstein.
The controversy has nevertheless persisted. Earlier polling has also shown broad public support for releasing the material. An Economist/YouGov survey conducted in November 2025 found 80 per cent of US adults supported releasing all government files from the Epstein investigation.
Former Trump Loyalists Turn Against His Approach
Trisha Hope, a former member of the so-called Front Row Joes who attended rallies and campaigned for Trump, has spoken publicly about her disillusionment.
According to recent reporting, Hope said Trump's July 2025 Epstein remark felt 'like a dagger in my heart', describing it as a moment when her perception of the president changed.
Hope had previously travelled extensively to support Trump and even spent time in Washington defending him during his first impeachment proceedings. She has since said she would support impeachment if Democrats win the midterm elections and pursue that route.
Her comments illustrate how the controversy has moved beyond arguments between Democrats and Republicans and into Trump's own political movement.
Survivors Demand Answers Beyond Politics
At the centre of the dispute are Epstein's victims and survivors, whose experiences have driven demands for greater transparency.
During an MSNBC discussion, survivor Alicia Arden said releasing the files would represent justice, while attorney Gloria Allred argued that the public needs enough information to understand the wider context of Epstein's crimes.
The debate has also reached Congress. Republican Representative Thomas Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna have pursued efforts to force greater disclosure, framing the issue around transparency and the interests of survivors.
