A veteran Republican strategist has launched a scathing critique of his party’s muted reaction to the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, cautioning that ongoing delays and selective silence could severely undermine trust among the GOP’s core base ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Brian Darling, a longtime GOP strategist and former Senate aide, warned that the limited and heavily redacted disclosures—following the Epstein Files Transparency Act signed by President Trump in November 2025—risk fueling conspiracy theories and eroding enthusiasm among Trump voters. “The drip-feed approach only amplifies skepticism,” Darling remarked in recent interviews, noting that partial releases, many featuring old information or excessive blackouts, leave the impression of shielding powerful figures.
The DOJ missed the December 19 deadline, releasing initial batches amid backlash, before announcing on December 24 the discovery of over one million additional documents requiring “a few more weeks” for review. This has drawn fire from bipartisan lawmakers, including Republicans like Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who co-sponsored the act and now threatens inherent contempt against Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Darling argues the party’s reluctance to aggressively demand full compliance—despite Trump’s campaign promises of transparency—sends a dangerous signal. MAGA supporters, already vocal on social media about perceived cover-ups, may disengage if unaddressed. “Legitimate transparency concerns could dampen turnout,” he stressed, pointing to frustration from influencers and podcasters who once championed the cause.
As Congress prepares to reconvene in January 2026, with threats of audits and contempt proceedings looming, Darling urges GOP leaders to confront the issue head-on. Selective silence, he warns, invites speculation that the party prioritizes protection over accountability, potentially alienating the very voters who demand unfiltered truth in Epstein’s web of elite associations.
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