A CNN panel discussion turned contentious when liberal podcaster Adam Mockler claimed the Epstein file release represented a cover-up larger than Watergate, sparking a heated confrontation among panelists on Abby Phillip’s program.
Mockler alleged that Attorney General Pam Bondi had orchestrated a massive government cover-up to protect President Donald Trump from damaging information contained in files related to deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The claim immediately drew a sharp response from Joe Borelli.
Borelli demanded that Mockler acknowledge whether any evidence existed linking Trump to trafficking during the broadcast.
When pressed by Borelli about whether any evidence existed that Trump had committed crimes, Mockler admitted there was no evidence.
The exchange drew in additional panelists, including Tezlyn Figaro, who challenged Borelli about the incomplete release of documents.
The dispute over Epstein-related materials has intensified following multiple document releases. House Oversight Committee Democrats received approximately 95,000 photographs from the Epstein estate. The Department of Justice released a new batch of Epstein files Friday, with 90 images made public showing associations between the late financier and numerous prominent individuals.
Among those appearing in the photographs are Bill Clinton, Steve Bannon, Prince Andrew, Bill Gates and Richard Branson. The images document Epstein’s connections to some of the world’s most powerful figures.
Trump addressed the photograph release during remarks from the Oval Office Friday. Trump said he hasn’t seen the photos. He said Epstein photos are no big deal. Trump said everybody knew Epstein in Palm Beach.
The Department of Justice clarified that some documents mentioning Trump in the released files are false, though the agency provided no similar statements regarding other prominent names appearing in the materials.
The Epstein controversy has continued to generate political friction despite Trump’s repeated attempts to minimize his past association with the disgraced financier. The administration’s handling of document releases has prompted questions about transparency and what information remains undisclosed.
Wednesday, Trump threatened to terminate broadcast licenses of networks.
The president also launched a verbal attack on Stephen Colbert, calling him a pathetic trainwreck.
Brendan Carr previously became involved in efforts targeting another late-night comedian, Jimmy Kimmel.
The escalating tensions over Epstein documents, media criticism and entertainment figures reflect broader divisions over transparency and presidential accountability. House Oversight Committee Democrats described the released images as raising questions about Epstein and his relationships with powerful figures.
During the CNN panel, Borelli characterized Democratic and media focus on the Epstein documents as desperate attempts to portray Trump as a criminal.
Figaro told Borelli during the heated exchange that once all files are released, they could discuss the matter further. Borelli responded that he would engage once complete file disclosure occurred, bringing the segment to a close.
The controversy shows no signs of abating as Democrats continue pressing for full disclosure of materials related to Epstein’s extensive network of relationships. The December 12, 2025, and December 13, 2025, releases represented only a fraction of the total photographic archive held by congressional investigators.
Trump’s simultaneous battles with media organizations and late-night comedians, combined with his threats regarding broadcast licenses, have raised First Amendment concerns among press freedom advocates.
As the document release process continues, attention remains focused on what additional materials may emerge from the Epstein estate archive and how the administration will respond to mounting pressure for complete transparency regarding the late financier’s associations with political and business leaders.
