How the Epstein Files Are Forcing a Reckoning with Power
The New Yorker
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The release of thousands of documents from the Jeffrey Epstein criminal investigation has sparked widespread confusion and deepened public distrust in institutions, according to a discussion on *The Political Scene Podcast*. Instead of providing clarity, the massive trove of files—estimated at millions of pages—has raised more questions than answers. The fragmented and chaotic nature of the documents reflects years of institutional failures and scandals involving élites, leaving many Americans struggling to piece together the full story. This situation has only intensified fears that the truth may remain elusive and that powerful institutions cannot be relied upon to reveal it.
The podcast features Joshua Rothman, a staff writer for *The New Yorker*, who explores how societal cynicism toward the powerful has shaped public reactions to the Epstein files. He highlights a growing belief that élites operate with impunity, a sentiment fueled by years of failed oversight and scandals involving institutions like law enforcement, finance, and media. The sheer volume of information has overwhelmed experts and amateurs alike, creating a fragmented narrative that reflects the chaotic nature of power and its ability to evade accountability.
This cultural shift matters because it speaks to broader concerns about trust in institutions—a cornerstone of democratic society. As Americans grapple with the implications of the Epstein files, they are also confronting deeper questions about justice, transparency, and the concentration of power. The reaction to these documents reveals a fractured public faith in leadership and governance, with many feeling that the powerful are operating beyond the reach of accountability. This cultural moment underscores the need for renewed scrutiny of how institutions operate and whether they can be trusted to uphold their obligations.
Ultimately, the Epstein files have not delivered closure but instead have exposed the fragility of trust in institutions and the enduring belief that power often goes unchecked. The ongoing fallout highlights a cultural turning point where Americans are reevaluating their relationship with authority and questioning the systems meant to hold it accountable. This skepticism is not just about one case—it reflects a broader shift in how people view power, justice, and the institutions tasked with upholding them.
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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/26/2026