President Donald Trump has expressed concerns that the Jeffrey Epstein files may contain names of individuals who should not be implicated.
During a press briefing at the White House on Friday afternoon (August 22), Trump addressed a question regarding the disclosure of these files.
A reporter inquired, “The DOJ is sending some of the Epstein files over to the House Oversight Committee. Are you in support of them releasing them?”
Trump replied, “Innocent people shouldn’t be hurt. You have a lot of people that could be mentioned in those files that don’t deserve to be because he knew everybody in Palm Beach. It’s a hoax.”
The press conference was convened by Trump to announce the World Cup draw, which is set to take place at the Kennedy Center next year.
The World Cup draw traditionally occurs in December before the tournament, which next year will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Washington, D.C. was not chosen as a host city for the 2026 tournament, despite the common practice of including a host country’s capital.
CNN reports that the Kennedy Center’s hosting of the draw allows Washington to participate in the event.
This draw signifies the first significant event of the tournament, which will feature 48 participating countries.
Reports suggest that Trump has built a rapport with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The tournament is anticipated to generate $30 billion for the U.S. economy and attract six million fans to games throughout North America.