Most Republicans approve of Trump's handling of Epstein files: poll
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A slim majority of Republicans approve of President Trump's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, while a majority of Americans disapprove, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling released Friday.
Why it matters: The Epstein files have become a flashpoint for Trump's MAGA base, but their disapproval is waning despite high skepticism of the federal government.
By the numbers: Overall, fewer than a quarter (23%) of those surveyed said they approve of Trump's handling of the Epstein scandal as of this month — up from 17% in July.
- 53% of Republicans approve — up from 44% last month.
- The figure is well below Trump's overall 85% approval rating with Republicans.
Catch up quick: Trump, who previously resisted calls to release the Epstein files, signed a bill last month ordering the Justice Department to release all records related to the late sex offender.
- Multiple judges have ruled in favor of releasing secret grand jury records following the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
- Emails released last month shed new light on the relationship between Trump and the disgraced financier who died by suicide in 2019 while in federal jail.
Zoom in: About three out of five (62%) respondents, including 56% of Republicans, said they believed the government is hiding information about Epstein's death.
- 70% of respondents said the government is hiding information about people who participated in Epstein's trafficking of teen girls, including 62% of Republicans.
Yes, but: While Republicans are skeptical of the federal government, just 39% said they believe Trump knew about Epstein's illicit activities before they became public.
Go deeper: The release of secret Epstein files just got a lot closer
Methodology: The online poll of 4,434 U.S. adults was conducted Dec. 3-8. The margin of error is +/- 2 percentage points.
