Late-Night Host Pushes New Label for Epstein Records as Trump Administration Faces Scrutiny

Jimmy Kimmel proposes a new name for government papers linked to jailed billionaire Jeffrey Epstein, sparking political controversy. In a recent ABC monologue, Kimmel suggested calling the “Epstein files” the “Trump-Epstein files,” a move that garnered political and media attention.

Kimmel made the comments while discussing public interest in Epstein’s sex trafficking records. Jamie Raskin said President Donald Trump is mentioned over one million times in the texts. Adding Trump’s name to the records would be consistent with his support for naming public institutions after himself, the comic joked.

Kimmel compared the disputed records to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Dulles International Airport, and Penn Station, suggesting that public naming may be a priority. He later said the phrase was trademarked for the joke and encouraged people to repeat it.

In later programs, Kimmel mentioned Vice President JD Vance and discussed public reactions to the administration’s release of Epstein case records.

Federal investigations into Epstein’s actions, including teenage sex trafficking, produced the records. The documents purportedly mention President Trump several times, but he has not been charged with Epstein’s crimes. The president has denied wrongdoing.

The Trump administration has also been criticized for document processing and disclosure. Critics have questioned public release delays and US Department of Justice redactions. Some commentators questioned the redaction of alleged co-conspirators’ names while victim identities were not always suppressed. The handling of sensitive material has sparked political discussion in Washington, especially among transparency advocates.

The dispute highlights concerns over government accountability, document disclosure, and public trust in federal investigations. As public attention grows, legal experts stress that a name in investigative files does not necessarily indicate criminal guilt. References can be in official records for witness testimonies, contacts, or context.

Despite being humorous, Kimmel’s comments have added to the political debate. Late-night shows now satirize politics, impacting internet debate and public opinion.

Epstein’s case is one of the most keenly watched federal investigations in recent years. Transparency and document management are politically contentious and often addressed in the media.