A fiery clash erupted on CNN's Newsnight programme after the network's resident MAGA commentator, Scott Jennings, suggested people should not "get our knickers in a twist" over the handling of documents related to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's child sex crimes.
Heated Exchange Over 'Child Rape' Files
Jennings, a former staffer for President George W. Bush, made the remark while discussing the botched release of the files from the Department of Justice. His dismissive tone and smirk prompted a furious response from author Leigh McGowan.
"'Let's not get our knickers in a twist over child rape'," McGowan shot back, adopting a sarcastic and haughty accent before breaking into a false laugh. She condemned his attitude as "horrifying," stating the files revealed a "multinational, multi-generational child and woman sex trafficking ring."
The debate quickly turned to the Department of Justice's failure to meet the legal deadline for releasing all documents, as mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act by 19 December 2025. While Jennings stated the DOJ "should follow the law," McGowan argued their failure to do so was itself a breach. "They are hiding it; It is not the behaviour of innocent people," she asserted.
Political Repercussions and a Fractured Base
The controversy surrounding the files' release has caused significant political waves. Former President Donald Trump, who is photographed and named in the documents but not accused of wrongdoing, initially dismissed questions about Epstein as a "waste of time." He only agreed to sign off on their release when it became clear Republicans in Congress would vote for it.
This delay shattered his formerly rock-solid MAGA base, with loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene turning on him for his failure to act swiftly. Trump has since sought to weaponise the scandal, frequently pointing out that former President Bill Clinton is also named and pictured in the files.
Clinton's spokesperson, Angel Ureña, has stated they seek no protection and have called on Trump to direct Attorney General Bondi to "immediately release any remaining materials" pertaining to Clinton, suggesting the DOJ's handling makes it clear "someone or something is being protected."
A Call for Transparency Regardless of Consequence
McGowan's final comments underscored the demand for full transparency, regardless of the political or social fallout. She argued that the contents of the files "could bring an entire house down."
"If it brings down Democrats, bring them down. If it brings down Republicans, bring them down," she said. "If it brings down princes, world leaders, Hollywood people, bring them down."
With only a fraction of the DOJ's trove made public so far, the pressure for complete disclosure continues to mount, ensuring the Epstein files will remain a potent and divisive issue in American politics.
