U.S. Vice President JD Vance is under fire from supporters of the MAGA movement for staying silent on the Jeffrey Epstein controversy, despite his past calls for full transparency. The criticism comes as the Trump administration signals its desire to move on from the issue.
Last week, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Justice Department found no evidence of an “Epstein client list” and said there are no additional files related to Epstein’s death or his sex trafficking case. This conclusion has frustrated many who believe crucial information is still being withheld.
Before becoming vice president, Vance regularly demanded the release of Epstein-related information. In December 2021, he posted on social media questioning why the government would keep Epstein’s alleged client list secret.
During his 2024 campaign, Vance also told podcaster Theo Von, “Seriously, we need to release the Epstein list. That is an important thing.” The interview has since received more than seven million views on YouTube.
Now in office, Vance has refused to comment on the matter. According to the Daily Mail, his office did not respond to media requests for a statement. Critics say his silence contradicts his previous position and accuse him of prioritizing political loyalty over the public’s right to know.
President Trump also dismissed questions about the Epstein case last week. “Are you still talking about Epstein? This guy has been talked about for years,” Trump told a reporter.
The controversy has created tension within the Trump administration. Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino reportedly considered resigning over how the case was handled but decided to stay after private discussions with both Trump and Vance.
Many MAGA supporters have expressed anger online. One user wrote, “If you’re the VP and you’re not asking questions about this case, you should be ashamed of yourself.” Some believe the backlash could hurt Vance’s chances if he decides to run for president in 2028.
Despite the criticism, Vance spent the weekend with his family at Disneyland and shared photos from a hike with the Marines at Camp Pendleton. He is scheduled to travel to Pennsylvania this week to promote President Trump’s economic policies.
The White House has confirmed that any future comments on the Epstein case will require President Trump’s approval. A senior advisor told Axios, “The president said to put this behind us, so we’re putting this behind us.”
