Post Reports How Trump’s Epstein woes nearly derailed his spending cuts
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Jul 18, 2025 
Liz Goodwin, a Congressional correspondent for The Washington Post, and Marianna Sotomayor, who covers the House of Representatives, dig into the political chaos surrounding Trump's handling of the Epstein case. They discuss the GOP's internal strife over withheld Epstein files and the implications for party unity. The conversation shifts to a controversial letter allegedly from Trump to Epstein and its legal ramifications. Finally, they tackle the recent cuts to federal funding for public broadcasting and the political fallout associated with them.
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Compromise Through Non-binding Resolution
- Some Freedom Caucus Republicans pushed for transparency to satisfy constituents and agreed to a non-binding resolution.
- The resolution urges but cannot compel the Trump administration to release Epstein files, enough to secure votes for spending cuts.
Republicans Caught Between Base and Trump
- Republicans struggle because their base demands government transparency but they also want to protect Trump.
- GOP lawmakers strongly support Trump despite public complaints, aligning with his wishes to maintain party unity.
Trump’s Concession Amid Persistent Epstein Coverage
- Trump’s small concession to release some grand jury transcripts shows recognition that the Epstein story won’t fade quickly.
- The persistence of the story confronts the usual short news cycles Trump expects and pressures more action.