Former Republican lawmaker Denver Riggleman has asserted that even the most devoted supporters of former President Donald Trump are now questioning his associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Riggleman, a critic of Trump’s presidency and a participant in the House Select Committee investigating the events of January 6, made these remarks during an appearance on MS NOW on March 18, 2023.
The discussion centered around recently released photographs that purportedly depict Trump with Epstein. Riggleman described the connection as “dastardly” and “hideous,” emphasizing the significance of the evidence presented. He stated, “Looking at frequency analysis, looking at follow the money. There’s also something here that’s very, what’s the best word I have, dastardly, hideous.” He questioned the threshold at which Republicans might acknowledge a friendship between Trump and Epstein, highlighting the ongoing debate within the party regarding Trump’s past.
Riggleman further elaborated on the implications of the photographs, suggesting they may indicate a deeper connection between Trump and Epstein’s criminal activities. He remarked, “I do think this is a money specific type of crime. And I know we’ve got to judge each person independently, right? We’re looking at these pictures and things of that nature.” His comments reflect a growing concern among some Republicans about Trump’s past associations, especially in light of the broader context of Epstein’s crimes.
The former congressman pointed out that Trump has a history of dishonesty regarding his relationships. “Look at Trump’s lying. That’s happened so often. So he’s been lying about his relationships. He’s lied over and over again,” Riggleman stated. He believes that the release of these photographs could potentially shift opinions among even the most steadfast supporters of Trump, suggesting that they may finally recognize the gravity of his connections.
In his concluding remarks, Riggleman expressed concern that the political landscape has reached a critical juncture. “I think even Republicans, those who are die-hard MAGA, are saying we are now sort of… we’ve crossed the threshold,” he said. “We’ve crossed the Rubicon into where it looks like Donald Trump was very engaged with some of the worst, child rapists and child traffickers we’ve ever seen.”
As discussions surrounding Trump’s associations with Epstein continue to evolve, the former president remains a polarizing figure within the Republican Party. The implications of these revelations may impact the party’s dynamics as it approaches future elections, especially as more evidence comes to light. The ongoing scrutiny of Trump’s past connections could play a significant role in shaping the opinions of both his supporters and detractors alike.
