In recent news, former President Donald Trump has made headlines once again regarding his past association with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a post on Truth Social, Trump announced plans to sue the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) over what he described as a false, malicious, and defamatory story linked to a note that allegedly included the words, "A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret."
Trump's relationship with Epstein dates back to the 1980s and 1990s. In a 2002 article for New York Magazine, Trump referred to Epstein as a "terrific guy," mentioning that they had known each other for over a decade. Trump characterized Epstein as someone who was "a lot of fun" to be around, even acknowledging their mutual attraction to beautiful women. This early camaraderie was evident during a party Trump hosted at Mar-a-Lago in 1992, which included Epstein amongst the guest list of NFL cheerleaders.
However, by 2019, Trump claimed that he had not spoken to Epstein for 15 years, stating, "I had a falling out with him a long time ago. I don't think I've spoken to him for 15 years. I wasn't a fan." This statement came after Epstein's arrest on federal charges related to sex trafficking. Trump's distancing from Epstein also coincided with the growing public scrutiny of Epstein's past actions.
Despite Trump's attempts to distance himself, the media and public have continued to explore the connections between the two men. Trump has labeled the ongoing outrage regarding Epstein as the “Jeffrey Epstein Hoax,” suggesting that it is an orchestrated effort by Democrats, and some misguided Republicans, to undermine him. "It's all been a big hoax," Trump asserted, calling for an end to what he termed a SCAM perpetuated by political adversaries.
On a recent Thursday, Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of all relevant grand jury testimony in Epstein's case, emphasizing that the matter should be resolved immediately. Public records analyzed by the Washington Post have shown that there is currently no public evidence linking Trump to any inappropriate behavior related to Epstein.
Here’s a concise timeline outlining the significant moments in the relationship between Trump and Epstein:
1980s-2000s: Trump praises Epstein as a "terrific guy," noting their long-standing friendship. 1992: Trump hosts a party at Mar-a-Lago featuring Epstein. 2000: Trump, Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and the future First Lady are photographed together. 2004: Trump outbids Epstein in a property dispute over a Palm Beach mansion. 2006: Epstein is indicted on felony charges. 2019: Following Epstein's arrest, Trump claims he hasn't spoken to Epstein in 15 years. 2020: Trump expresses well wishes for Maxwell during a press briefing. 2025: Trump's DOJ releases over 100 pages of Epstein-related documents. July 2025: Trump disavows past supporters who bought into the Epstein Hoax.The evolving narrative of Trump's relationship with Epstein continues to spark discussions and controversies. As Trump prepares to take legal action against the WSJ, the implications of his past connections are still being scrutinized by both supporters and critics alike. The ongoing examination of this relationship highlights the complexities of political narratives and the impact of personal associations in the public eye.
