7 Takeaways From Epstein Survivors’ Response to Trump

1. What did Trump say that upset Epstein survivors?

After signing a bill to release the Epstein files, Trump posted on Truth Social calling the issue a "hoax." He said Democrats were using the scandal against him politically. He did not mention Epstein's victims in his message. Survivor Danielle Bensky said Trump made something political that should have been a moment to celebrate survivors.

2. Who is Danielle Bensky and what happened to her?

Danielle Bensky is 39 years old and was abused by Jeffrey Epstein when she was a teenager. She was 17 and a ballerina when she was recruited in 2004 to give Epstein massages. Epstein told her he could help her mother, who had a brain tumor. He threatened that her mother would not get good medical care unless Bensky helped him, so she brought other girls to him and was later raped by Epstein after turning 18.

3. Why are survivors upset by Trump’s comments?

Survivors like Bensky believe this moment should have honored their advocacy and achievements. Calling it a “hoax” undermines years of campaigning. Politically, it may reduce public trust in how leaders respond to abuse cases.

4. What did survivors do to get the Epstein files released?

Survivors held up photos of their younger selves at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday. They spent months talking to congressional leaders and senators to push for the bill. The bill passed the House and Senate on Wednesday before going to Trump. Survivors like Maria Farmer, Chauntae Davies, and Virginia Giuffre (who died in April) led the campaign for years.

5. What risks exist for the full release of Epstein files?

The Department of Justice has 30 days to release the files, but survivors fear evidence could be withheld or heavily redacted. Delays or omissions could prevent full accountability for facilitators of Epstein’s abuse.

6. What happens next with the Epstein files?

The Justice Department has 30 days to release the remaining Epstein files. Bensky hopes they release everything without hiding information. Survivors worry that evidence might go missing or that large parts will be blocked out. They want everyone who helped Epstein to be held accountable, similar to how Prince Andrew lost his royal titles in the UK.