Republican Civil War Erupts Over Epstein Files Vote
Former President Donald Trump has publicly branded Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene as a "traitor" in an explosive feud that threatens to fracture the Republican party. The dramatic falling-out comes as a crucial House vote looms that could force the release of remaining documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Greene, once considered one of Trump's most loyal allies in Washington, now finds herself isolated after joining Democrats in supporting a petition to compel the White House to release the full Epstein files. The congresswoman revealed over the weekend that she fears for her safety following Trump's public condemnation.
Safety Concerns and Political Fallout
Marjorie Taylor Greene expressed grave concerns about her personal security after the former president withdrew his support and labelled her "another FAKE politician." In a social media post on Saturday, Greene stated: "I am now being contacted by private security firms with warnings for my safety as a hot bed of threats against me are being fuelled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world."
The rupture represents a significant moment in Republican politics, with Trump indicating he would consider endorsing a primary challenger against the Georgia representative. This development comes just ahead of midterm elections, potentially creating deeper rifts within the MAGA movement.
Epstein Files Vote Creates Republican Division
The House is expected to vote next week on whether to force the government to release the remaining Epstein documents. Greene was among only four Republicans who joined Democratic colleagues in signing the discharge petition that secured the vote.
In a warning to her Republican colleagues, Greene stated: "You vote NO on Tuesday to release the Epstein files and face severe outrage from America." She specifically criticised Representative Troy Nehls after he announced he would not support the measure, adding that "Republicans don't have support from women and this right here is a perfect example of why."
The rebellion extends beyond Greene, with other Trump loyalists including Representatives Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace resisting pressure from high-level Trump aides to withdraw their support. According to Reuters, administration officials even met with Boebert in the Situation Room - typically reserved for national security matters - in an unsuccessful attempt to persuade her.
Broader Implications for Republican Unity
The timing of this internal conflict could not be worse for Republican leadership, coming immediately after the government reopened following a 43-day shutdown. The Epstein files issue has exposed rare dissent within a party that has largely maintained unity behind Trump.
Meanwhile, the controversy has spilled over into popular culture, with Saturday Night Live dedicating its cold open sketch to mocking the administration's handling of the Epstein scandal. The sketch featured Trump character offering to sell gold-framed Epstein files as "stocking stuffers" for $800.
As the House prepares for Tuesday's crucial vote, the Republican party faces a defining moment that could either heal the growing divisions or deepen the fractures within Trump's base ahead of the midterm elections.
