Massie: Trump UFO talk ‘ultimate weapon of mass distraction’ from Epstein files
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has criticized President Trump for using discussions about UFOs and extraterrestrial life as a distraction from the ongoing controversy surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files. In a recent social media post, Massie accused Trump of employing what he called "the ultimate weapon of mass distraction," suggesting that the administration is shifting focus away from the sensitive legal and ethical issues tied to Epstein's case. Despite efforts to divert attention, Massie emphasized that the Epstein files are not going away, even for aliens—a jab at the absurdity of using UFO speculation as a political tactic.
The move by Trump and his team appears to be an attempt to capitalize on public curiosity about UFOs and extraterrestrial life, which has gained traction in recent months due to government declassifications and media coverage. By amplifying this narrative, the administration may be hoping to shift the spotlight from Epstein's alleged connections to powerful figures, including Trump himself. However, Massie's comments reflect a growing skepticism among some political leaders about the effectiveness of such tactics.
This strategy matters because it highlights the lengths to which the White House might go to avoid accountability for controversial or damaging information tied to Epstein. The case has already raised questions about the administration's handling of sensitive files and its relationship with Epstein, who was found dead in a federal prison earlier this year. By introducing UFO speculation into the conversation, Trump appears to be doubling down on a tactic that has been used by previous administrations to deflect from scandals, but Massie suggests it won't work this time.
For readers interested in politics, this story underscores the ongoing tension between political strategy and public trust. It also raises broader questions about how governments manage crises and whether such tactics ultimately succeed or backfire. The interplay between distraction and accountability is a key theme in modern politics, and Massie's comments add another layer to the conversation about how leaders navigate controversy.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026