Trump doesn't realize why MAGA needs the Epstein files

[nick william]

16. Why the Epstein Files Matter More to MAGA's Narrative Than to Justice

Amanda Marcotte hits a critical nerve here—not just about Trump’s nervous deflection, but about the psychological function conspiracy theories serve within MAGA culture. The Epstein case has become a Rorschach test for ideological projection. Trump supporters, who have long ignored or justified a mountain of sexual abuse allegations against their leader, are suddenly obsessed with "protecting children"—but only when it’s someone else being accused.

What Marcotte gets right is that this isn’t about justice or concern for victims. It’s about narrative control. If the Epstein files can be weaponized against Democrats or the "liberal elite," MAGA wins the moral high ground in their minds—no matter what Trump himself may be guilty of. It’s not about the facts; it’s about who gets to play the hero in a mythologized culture war.

Trump’s fear is obvious. He’s trying to steer the base away from a landmine that might blow up in his direction. But what he doesn’t grasp is that the movement he created has taken on a life of its own. They don’t want facts; they want villains. And if he ends up on the wrong side of that story—even briefly—they’ll either spin harder or start questioning him, both of which he sees as threats.

The tragic irony? Real victims of Epstein’s abuse continue to be used as pawns in a partisan spectacle. Justice isn’t the goal. Narrative dominance is.