How Epstein case is tearing apart Maga's online conspiracy wing
www.bbc.com

... It seems like a simple decision for Donald Trump's administration -- release files related to the late convicted ---------- financier Jeffery Epstein, or keep them out of public view.

But battles raging among the US president's supporters in some of the more conspiratorial spaces online suggest that the choice facing Trump is not easy at all.

In those spaces, users argue about whether to trust the White House, and they speculate on what might be going on behind the scenes and Trump's strategic acumen -- which some fans liken to playing a game of "4D chess".

"Don't get distracted by the Epstein shills," wrote one commenter professing his steadfast support for Trump on TheDonald, a popular message board filled with news, conspiracy theories and language ranging from salty to extremely offensive.

"I have not once called for the Epstein files to be released because I'm not a complete and total [fool]," the commenter added.

But that sentiment is far from universal.

"Epstein transparency NOW!!!" came one reply.

Another user criticised the president over his recent statements that lambasted supporters for focusing on the Epstein issue: "Don't [lash] out at your own base ... That makes you look guilty." ...