Why won't Trump release the Epstein files?
My first guess is that there are a number of very prominent GOP campaign contributors with deep pockets, not to mention a couple or three sitting members of congress . . . who would be exposed if their names come out. Not that they don't deserve to be run out of town on a rail but that's not how Trump's MAGA circle play the game.
And then, of course, there are those rumored photos of Trump himself frolicking with some young stuff.
In short, the answer to "why" is . . . . all Hell would break loose.
America would go through a massive sea change. And to put some icing on the cupcake, we'd probably end up with our first Madam President.
Trump does not do well at these boring but obligatory occasions. My impression is that he just wanted to get it over with and get back to his deal making.