Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez triggered a political firestorm after calling President Donald Trump a “rapist” in a social media post. Her remark came as renewed attention focused on files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The inflammatory accusation has provoked fierce backlash and prompted calls for legal action.
Ocasio-Cortez’s comment—“Wow who would have thought that electing a rapist would have complicated the release of the Epstein Files?”—was met with immediate condemnation. Critics blasted the New York Democrat for making a defamatory statement, especially given that Trump has never been convicted or found civilly liable for rape. In a widely discussed civil case, a jury ruled against Trump for sexual abuse and defamation, but not rape.
Conservatives and legal commentators warned that her statement could constitute defamation. Several called for Trump to file a lawsuit, referencing past legal victories he’s secured for false claims. One user warned, “Lawyer up—you’re going to need it,” while others accused Ocasio-Cortez of reckless dishonesty and partisan smear tactics.
The timing of AOC’s statement coincides with increased scrutiny of Epstein-related investigations. Surveillance footage from Epstein’s prison cell has reportedly raised questions about potential tampering. At the same time, there has been frustration among Trump supporters regarding how the Department of Justice is handling the Epstein case, including disagreements over transparency and the role of key officials.
Ocasio-Cortez has previously labeled Trump a “rapist,” including in 2021 when she said she would not attend his inauguration for that reason. Despite the political theater, the legal reality remains that Trump has not been convicted of any rape charge. The renewed public accusations have added fuel to ongoing political and legal battles as the 2024 election cycle intensifies.
