Epstein Survivor Denounces Trump’s ‘Hoax’ Claim on File Release

A survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s extensive abuse has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump for his recent characterization of the victims’ long-standing pursuit of transparency as a “hoax.” This condemnation came shortly after Trump signed legislation authorizing the public release of documents related to the disgraced financier, only to follow it with a lengthy social media diatribe.

Danielle Bensky, 39, who endured abuse by Epstein during her teenage years, voiced her profound disappointment. “He made something very political out of something that could have been really a beautiful moment for our history and for women and for survivors everywhere,” Bensky stated, reflecting on the former president’s comments. She added, “He is sort of missing the point entirely because this really should have been a day to celebrate all the achievements of all the survivors that led the charge in this.”

A Moment Undermined by Political Rhetoric

Following the signing of the bill, Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday night, unleashing a rambling message that conspicuously omitted any mention of Epstein’s victims. Instead, his post accused Democrats of weaponizing the scandal against him, declaring, “This latest Hoax will backfire on the Democrats just as all of the rest have!”

Bensky highlighted how Trump’s use of the term “hoax” profoundly undermined the tireless advocacy of women abused by Epstein. She cited the efforts of individuals like Maria Farmer, Chauntae Davies, and Virginia Giuffre, who tragically passed away in April, as examples of the relentless fight for justice. “He’s used the word ‘hoax’ more times than we can count. It’s incredibly disrespectful. At every turn, no matter how many of us have come forward,” Bensky explained, conveying the depth of frustration felt by survivors.

Years of Advocacy for Transparency

Bensky herself was an active participant in the campaign for the file release. Just days prior, on Tuesday, she joined a group of fellow Epstein survivors at the U.S. Capitol, where they held up photographs of their younger selves. Their presence underscored the personal and enduring impact of Epstein’s crimes, as they passionately advocated for the disclosure of the highly anticipated documents.

The group’s elation was palpable when the transparency bill successfully navigated through the House of Representatives and then the Senate on Wednesday, culminating in its transmission to President Trump for his signature. This legislative victory was the culmination of significant effort from the survivor community.

The Fight for Public Records

“We’ve put so much time and effort into talking to congressional leaders, we’ve been talking to senators, we’ve done everything we possibly can and it feels a lot like America is on our side and has really heard us,” Bensky shared, describing the collective relief and hope among survivors. “What a beautiful moment for American democracy and instead [Trump] chooses to just make it divisive … It’s a double-edged sword,” she lamented, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of the moment.

Bensky’s own journey began as a 17-year-old ballerina when she first encountered Epstein. Her experience, like that of countless others, fueled her dedication to ensuring that the truth about Epstein’s network and his enablers would finally come to light.

The release of these files represents a critical step for accountability and justice for those who suffered under Epstein. However, for survivors like Bensky, the political framing of this significant milestone by figures like Donald Trump risks overshadowing the profound human cost and the hard-won progress in their fight for recognition and truth.

Source: The Guardian