Trump’s Long-Running “Hoax” Defense Fails to Shield Him Again

Donald Trump frequently employs the strategy of dismissing politically damaging revelations as part of a “hoax,” a tactic that has allowed him to deflect scrutiny throughout his career. Despite recent allegations related to Jeffrey Epstein—who was convicted of sex offenses and associated with high-profile figures—Trump continues to label any emerging information as a “hoax.”

He has used this tactic extensively since his presidency. During investigations into Russia’s interference in the 2016 election, Trump dismissed findings from intelligence agencies and congressional probes, branding them as “fake news,” “witch hunts,” and “hoaxes.” This narrative was embraced by his supporters and reinforced by right-wing media, solidifying a false perception that these investigations were part of a conspiracy against him.

Trump applied the same “hoax” label to his first impeachment over Ukraine, claiming it was a partisan witch hunt, and again after losing the 2020 election, alleging widespread voter fraud orchestrated by Democrats and foreign entities. After inciting the January 6 Capitol riot, he dismissed subsequent inquiries by claiming they were part of the same “hoax.”

The former president also attacked the FBI raid on his Mar-a-Lago estate, claiming it was a “scam” and a political “hoax” designed to target him. Similarly, related lawsuits, such as the one from E. Jean Carroll accusing him of sexual assault, were dismissed by Trump as manufactured lies.

Most recently, Trump has grappled with allegations surrounding Jeffrey Epstein. Despite calls from supporters to release documents related to Epstein’s case—long demanded by MAGA influencers and allies—Trump has denounced any new revelations as yet another “hoax,” claiming Democrats have fabricated the entire controversy. In public statements, he repeated this line, asserting that the Epstein matter was started by Democrats and framing it as part of the ongoing “hoax.”

This persistent denial strategy may not be as effective this time, as many of his supporters now feel betrayed by the lack of disclosure. Whether his repeated “hoax” defense will continue to sway his base remains uncertain, especially after years of similar tactics that have long been intertwined with conspiracy theories and misinformation.