Late Show host Stephen Colbert delivered a sharp critique of former President Donald Trump's evolving stance on the release of documents connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. During his Tuesday night monologue, Colbert highlighted what he characterized as a significant political reversal for Trump regarding the legislative process.
Trump's Dramatic Legislative Turnaround
Colbert emphasized that the passage of the bill to release Epstein-related files represents a substantial defeat for Trump, despite his eventual endorsement. "This is a dramatic legislative turnaround and a huge loss for Trump, make no mistake," Colbert told his audience. The comedian noted that Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson had actively opposed the document release for approximately four months using every congressional tool available.
The situation represents a broken campaign promise, as Trump had committed during the 2024 campaign to release the Epstein files. Instead, during his initial months back in office, he worked to block the release, dismissing the effort as a "Democrat hoax." Only when it became evident that the legislation would pass regardless did Trump change his position and encourage Republican support.
Colbert's Troll Riddle Mockery
Colbert employed his signature humor to describe a potential legislative complication that ultimately didn't materialize. When it briefly appeared the Senate might amend the bill, Colbert imagined a fantastical scenario where the legislation would need to return to the House and face a mythical obstacle.
"It would have to go back to the House, where it has to cross over a river and under the bridge is a troll," Colbert joked. "And to get by the troll, you have to answer his riddle: 'What walks on two cankles in the morning, rides a golf cart in the afternoon, and is totally in the Epstein files?'"
The comedic segment referenced Trump's documented connections to Epstein, whose released documents from last week mention the former president multiple times. Trump and Epstein were once close associates before Epstein's conviction and subsequent death.
Unanimous Senate Approval
Ultimately, no mythical creatures or riddles were required for the bill's passage. The Senate voted unanimously to approve the House bill without amendments, ensuring the documents will be released as originally intended. This bipartisan support underscored the legislation's momentum despite earlier opposition from key Republican figures.
The episode represents another chapter in the ongoing political drama surrounding the Epstein case, which continues to generate controversy and media attention years after the financier's death. The document release is expected to provide additional details about Epstein's network of associates and their activities.
