Recently, a former federal prosecutor, Joyce Vance, took issue with President Donald Trump after he called a journalist “piggy” during a press conference. Her demand for transparent investigation files related to Jeffrey Epstein follows growing national concerns over the abuse of girls connected to Epstein and his powerful network.
Why This is Significant
Trump directed his derogatory comment to Catherine Lucey of Bloomberg as the national discourse shifts to the serious allegations surrounding Epstein. This remark came while he was on Air Force One and Lucey had the audacity to ask why he wouldn’t make public the Epstein investigation files.
“Quiet, piggy,” he snapped, which drew objections not only because of the remark itself but also due to the broader implications of such attitudes towards women.
Key Points to Know
Even before Trump denounced any wrongdoing in association with Epstein, he already faced backlash for his response to insightful questions. Vance calls his treatment of Lucey particularly infuriating, stating it showcases his problematic attitude toward women.
While the president indicated he would endorse legislation aimed at obligating the Department of Justice to publicly disclose Epstein-related files, uncertainty lingers over what specific information could be released and in what form, suggesting potential redactions.
Vance argues that simply signing the bill won’t suffice—she demands comprehensive disclosure without excuses: “Enough demeaning of women. The files must be released in full.”
Although Trump claims his ties to Epstein ceased in the early 2000s, escalating inquiries and document releases have prompted a fresh look at their relationship. Epstein tragically died in a federal jail in New York in 2019 while awaiting charges related to sex trafficking.
According to Vance, the suggestion of a new assessment by the Justice Department serves merely as an evasion. “It enables Trump to adopt a seemingly popular stance on the file release while simultaneously relying on Justice Department lawyers—amid a renewed investigation—to limit what actually makes it into the public eye,” she explained.
Reflecting on Trump’s words directed at Lucey, Vance underscored how troubling it is for the President of the United States to minimize legitimate inquiries during a crucial period when women were advocating for justice: “At such a moment, those dismissive words aimed at a journalist merely trying to do her job echo a lamentable attitude towards women in power.”
She proposed that women should symbolize empowerment through figures like Miss Piggy—a character known for her sass and confidence. “Call a woman ‘piggy,’ and see how that leaves you, Mr. President,” she cautioned.
What’s Next?
The Epstein Files Transparency Act has made its way to Trump’s desk, and although he has stated that he would sign it, the actual content of the released files and potential redactions remain up in the air. Many are watching closely to see what unfolds.
