Americans feel the Epstein files have eroded their trust in US government and economic leaders.

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals widespread American disillusionment with elites following the US Justice Department’s late January release of over 3 million Epstein files, naming high-profile figures and fueling distrust.

Poll Highlights (Feb 13-16, 2026; n=1,117 adults)

• Eroded Trust: 53% say the files “lowered their trust in political and business leaders” (extremely/very well); 24% somewhat agree.
• Accountability Skepticism: 69% believe files prove “powerful people are rarely held accountable” (81% Democrats, 68% independents, 58% Republicans).
• Government Secrecy Doubts:Belief% Definitely/Probably TrueHiding Epstein clients75%Hiding details of his death65%
• No Moving On: Only 21% say it’s time to stop discussing the files.

Methodology Snapshot

Probability-based KnowledgePanel sample, weighted for demographics, 2024 vote, party ID. Margin of error: ±3%.

These results, steady since July 2025 polls, reflect bipartisan cynicism amid global Epstein fallout—like Mandelson’s UK Lords resignation—highlighting demands for transparency and probes into elite networks.

SOURCE