Bulwark Takes: LIVE - Trump’s Epstein Timeline Collapses Under New Scrutiny

Hosts: Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell
Release Date: July 20, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosts Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell delve deep into the unraveling timeline of former President Donald Trump’s association with Jeffrey Epstein. Released on July 20, 2025, the discussion centers around recent investigative reports that have intensified scrutiny on Trump’s connections with Epstein, shedding new light on a scandal that has evolved over the past two decades.

Recapping the Epstein-Trump Relationship

Bill Kristol initiates the conversation by referencing their initial discussions eight days prior when they anticipated the escalation of the Epstein scandal. He states:

“We did have the instinct that things were blowing up. And they were. And they have since, obviously.”
[00:20]

Sarah Longwell expands on the timeline, emphasizing the prolonged relationship between Trump and Epstein. She highlights that Trump was introduced to Epstein around his 50th birthday and maintained a close association for approximately 15 to 20 years. Longwell notes:

“Trump and Epstein really knew each other over a about [sic] 15 to 20 year time frame when I think they were between kind of their early to mid-30s to about their, to about 50 Epstein.”
[05:35]

They discuss the fallout of their friendship in 2004-2005, sparked by a bidding war over a property, leading to public accusations by Trump labeling Epstein a "creep."

Media Scrutiny and Independent Reporting

Longwell points out the shift in media coverage, noting the Wall Street Journal's pivotal role in bringing new information to light:

“The Wall Street Journal this weekend. We’ve got some, the New York Times has done now maybe like five stories over the last few days...”
[02:15]

She emphasizes the transformation from initial dismissals to in-depth investigative journalism that provides a more nuanced understanding of the Trump-Epstein relationship.

Kristol adds, reflecting on the media dynamics:

“Julie writes the book. So Julie Brown is why we know about this, not MAGA.”
[10:27]

They discuss the distinction between genuine investigative reporting and conspiracy-driven narratives, asserting that the former is crucial for uncovering the truth.

Impact on Trump’s Base and Political Implications

The hosts explore how the Epstein scandal is affecting Trump’s support base. Kristol expresses concern that:

“They have to grapple with all this new information and I doubt they’re going to let it go.”
[22:07]

Longwell counters the notion that only the hardcore MAGA supporters are concerned, suggesting that even moderate Trump supporters are beginning to question the revelations. She states:

“Trump has done more of this to himself than anybody else in his. This is boring. Why are you still talking about this?”
[37:40]

The discussion touches on the potential fracturing of Trump’s base and the broader political ramifications, including pressure on influential figures like Speaker Johnson.

Justice Department’s Role and Potential Cover-Up

A significant portion of the conversation addresses the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein case. Longwell critiques the actions of Attorney General Pam Bondi and others involved, suggesting a deliberate cover-up:

“Don’t think that just instituting cover up about anything is going to work with some of them and it’s pathetic and it should destroy their credibility.”
[14:07]

Kristol draws parallels to historical scandals like Watergate, questioning whether the current institutional structures can effectively hold figures like Trump accountable without similar checks and balances.

Ethical and Societal Implications

Longwell reflects on the societal shift from viewing Trump and Epstein as mere playboys to recognizing the grave criminal activities associated with their association. She remarks:

“This is the worst stuff you can do. And the lines not so, so great between the life Donald Trump was living that now leg, it’s a whole different.”
[32:21]

The hosts discuss the broader implications on societal perceptions of power, privilege, and accountability, emphasizing the necessity for continued investigation and transparency.

Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

As the episode wraps up, Kristol and Longwell underscore the evolving nature of the scandal and the critical role of independent media and judicial scrutiny in uncovering the truth. Kristol asserts:

“This is the strongest scandal, I'm thinking now the history of these scandals, they don't start with the opposition party.”
[44:59]

Longwell urges for sustained attention and action from both political parties to ensure justice and prevent impunity for powerful individuals.

Key Takeaways

• Prolonged Association: Trump and Epstein maintained a close relationship for 15-20 years, which ended around 2004-2005 due to personal and professional conflicts.

• Media's Evolving Role: Independent journalism, particularly by outlets like the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, has been pivotal in deepening the public’s understanding of the scandal.

• Political Fallout: The Epstein revelations pose a potential threat to Trump’s political support, possibly leading to a split within his base.

• Justice Department Concerns: Criticisms arise regarding the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein case, with suggestions of a possible cover-up.

• Societal Impact: The scandal has shifted public perception from viewing involved parties as mere playboys to recognizing the heinous nature of their actions, highlighting issues of power and accountability.

• Future Investigations: Continued scrutiny and investigative efforts are essential to fully unravel the extent of Trump’s involvement and to ensure justice for the victims.

This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a comprehensive and critical examination of the collapsing timeline between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, emphasizing the importance of persistent investigative journalism and the dire consequences of unchecked power and corruption.