House Judiciary GOP account posts 'Rickroll' instead of Epstein files link, sparking backlash
The Brief
The House Judiciary GOP account falsely claimed to share the Epstein files but linked to a "Rickroll" prank.
The post quickly faced backlash, with critics calling it tone-deaf and irresponsible.
The Judiciary Committee has not yet addressed the controversy.
LOS ANGELES - The official X account for the House Judiciary GOP is facing criticism after it posted a false link claiming to provide access to the newly released Epstein files—only for users to find themselves "Rickrolled" with Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up" music video.
The post, which featured "#BREAKING: EPSTEIN FILES RELEASED" alongside the misleading link, was quickly flagged by community notes on X. Users pointed out that the link did not contain the Epstein files but instead redirected to the 1987 hit song.
What they're saying
Critics slammed the Judiciary Committee's lack of judgment, given the serious nature of the Epstein case.
"This is the official X account for the House Judiciary Committee using the Epstein files as an occasion for a corny "Rickroll" joke. Just a stunning lack of judgment by the people responsible for this account. Truly mind-boggling," one user wrote.
The Judiciary GOP has not yet commented on the backlash, and the post remains online as of the latest update.
The backstory
"Rickrolling" is an internet prank that involves tricking someone into clicking a link they believe is important—only to be redirected to Rick Astley's 1987 song "Never Gonna Give You Up." The meme originated in 2007 and has since become a widespread internet joke, often used for lighthearted trolling.
However, the House Judiciary GOP's use of the prank in connection with the Epstein files, a case involving serious crimes and ongoing legal scrutiny, was widely seen as tone-deaf and inappropriate. Critics argue that the meme's use in this context trivializes the gravity of the situation and raises concerns about the committee's professionalism in handling sensitive matters.
The Source
This report is based on House Judiciary GOP's official X post, community note corrections, and user reactions on social media following the misleading Epstein files link.
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