Right-leaning outlets divide as Fox and Newsmax clash over Epstein: Bias Breakdown
The Epstein case is back in the news following the release of a DOJ memo stating there was no client list. While coverage of the development has surged on some networks, others — particularly on the political right — have devoted less time to the story.
The absence of extensive coverage on networks like Fox News has drawn criticism, including from other right-leaning outlets like Newsmax, which questioned why such a high-profile topic isn’t receiving more airtime.
Fox News silent over the story
Coverage hasn’t been equal across the media landscape. While many left- and right-leaning networks have run extended segments reexamining Epstein’s past connections and pressing for transparency, Fox News — the highest-rated cable network — has been largely quiet on the matter. In the days following the DOJ’s memo, the network offered little on-air discussion about the case, despite it dominating national conversation elsewhere.
When the story is mentioned on Fox, the framing tends to focus less on the investigation itself and more on the motivations behind its coverage. Hosts have characterized the renewed attention as a politically motivated distraction, arguing Democrats and left-leaning media use the Epstein story to stoke division within Trump’s base.
This contrast has drawn attention and scrutiny from other outlets, including Newsmax on the right, who have questioned Fox News’ minimal engagement. The network noted that many right-wing hosts appear hesitant to cover the story at all, citing concerns about audience reaction and potential political fallout.
Media split mirrors party divide
The stark contrast in media coverage of the Epstein case reflects a broader divide within the Republican Party itself.
Some conservative lawmakers, including staunch Trump supporter Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, and conservative commentators, like staunch Trump supporter Alex Jones, are pushing for transparency and demanding the release of Epstein-related files. However, President Trump has signaled it’s time to move on, urging both his party and the media to shift focus.
Mixed messaging and lingering questions
Despite the DOJ’s efforts to close the book on the Epstein case, questions remain — not just about the facts of the case itself, but about how information is being handled and presented.
Conflicting messages about the existence of a client list and apparent missing prison footage have only added to public uncertainty.
This episode looks at how the media is covering the Epstein case — and how that coverage is revealing a growing divide within conservative circles. As questions about Trump’s response to the case continue, disagreements among Republican voices are starting to show up across right-leaning media.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
