US senator warns of fossil fuel coup, economic reckoning
In an interview, Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island blamed the sweeping rollback of environmental protections on a flood of unlimited, anonymous corporate political spending, and said exposing the scale of this "fraud" is key to breaking its grip.
His remarks came as the death toll from catastrophic flooding in Texas linked by scientists to climate change threatened to surge further.
"This isn't even government any longer," the 69-year-old told a small group of reporters ahead of an address to Congress Wednesday -- his 300th so-called "Time to Wake Up" speech, delivered as activists reel from Trump's actions.
"This is an occupying force from the fossil fuel industry that has injected itself into the key positions of responsibility," said the lawmaker.
"It has the appearance of being government -- they ride around in the black cars... they have the offices, they have the titles," he said. But in reality, "they're fossil fuel flunkies... and they care not a whit for public opinion or public safety."
Big Oil spent at least $445 million to help elect Trump, according to a recent analysis by Climate Power, which said its figure was likely a vast underestimate because of undisclosed donations.
- Dark money takeover -
In his second term, Republican Trump has pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, gutted science agencies, fired researchers and forecasters, scrapped his predecessor Joe Biden's clean energy tax cuts and rolled back powerplant and vehicle efficiency standards.
Whitehouse calls it the oil, coal and gas industry's "most sordid dreams come true" and says the stage was set by the 2010 Supreme Court "Citizens United" ruling, which unleashed an era of unchecked corporate political spending.
A former state attorney general who battled corporate polluters, he recalled that when he first joined the Senate, climate bipartisanship flourished: John McCain, the GOP's 2008 presidential nominee, had "a perfectly respectable climate platform," while Republican senators proposed bills.
"These weren't little tiddlywinks, nibble-at-the-edges bills," he recalled, but would have genuinely changed the trajectory of climate emissions.
Citizens United reversed century-old campaign finance restrictions and opened the floodgates to dark money.
"They were able to come into the Republican Party and say, 'We will give you unlimited amounts of money. You will have more money in your elections than you've ever seen before.'"
- The way forward -
Despite the bleak landscape, Whitehouse still sees a narrow path to climate safety — and points to several potential game changers.
First, he cites the possible emergence of a global carbon pricing effort, spearheaded by the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which taxes importers based on their climate footprint.
Countries like the UK, Canada, Mexico and Australia could join this movement, creating a de facto global price on carbon, enforced through trade -- without US legislation.
Second, he says, Democrats can and must expose fossil fuel's stranglehold on the Republican party, a phenomenon he calls one of the "most grave incidents of political corruption and fraud that the country has ever seen," and pass a bill forcing donor transparency.
Third, what was once framed as a crisis for polar bears -- and later as an opportunity for green jobs -- is today directly hitting Americans where it hurts most: their wallets.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has warned that climate change will shrink mortgage availability across swaths of the United States in the coming years as banks and insurers retreat from fire- and flood-prone regions.
Risks could cascade from an insurance crunch into a broader mortgage collapse -- potentially triggering a 2008-style crash.
Whitehouse predicts the fossil fuel industry's hold on Republicans won't last forever.
"When it becomes clear what has been done here, then there's going to be a dramatic reset," he said. "A reckoning will come for this. There's no doubt about it -- it's just the nature of human affairs."
Trump himself, he added, was merely swept along by the dominant current of the post-2010 Republican Party, with no ideological stake in the issue. As recently as 2009, he co-signed a full-page advertisement in the New York Times demanding stronger climate action from then president Barack Obama.
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Bangkok Post
13 hours ago
- Bangkok Post
All hands on deck
Thailand is on the brink of facing trade woes, no matter whether the US imposes steep or gentler reciprocal tariffs on Thai imports. US President Donald Trump's threatening reciprocal tariff policy has not only sparked concerns over sales of more expensive Thai goods in the American market but has also prompted businesses and the government to take a serious look into problems in the export sector and possible changes that may ensue amid uncertainties surrounding Washington's trade policy. Since Trump vowed in April to strengthen tariff measures, entrepreneurs in key industries and analysts have been kept busy, shifting between different tariff scenarios, assessing potential adverse impacts as well as examining product prices and export figures. Talks on attempts to seek new markets to replace the US have also been highlighted but often simply suggest significant challenges and an uphill task. ELECTRONICS TRADE MONITORED According to Tris Rating, electronics and electrical equipment are among the sectors to be most severely affected by the US tariffs. KGI Securities predicts consumer PCs and smartphones to be subject to tariffs, making for an uncertain demand outlook from the second half of this year through 2026. "If the US imposes a 36% tariff on electronic components and computer parts, we estimate that it could lead to a decline in export value of roughly 120 billion baht in 2025 and 360 billion baht in 2026, compared to a scenario where these products remain tariff-exempt," said Phongprapha Napapruekchat, assistant vice-president of Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank. Based on data collected from the Ministry of Commerce, he estimated that the impact of US import tariff hikes on global suppliers will have a limited effect on smartphone and computer retail prices in Thailand. This is primarily because Thai consumers and businesses source nearly all smartphones and computers from China. In 2024, imports from China accounted for roughly 80% of smartphones and 95% of computers imported into Thailand. Additionally, the limited impact is reinforced by Thailand's continued exemption of import duties on both smartphones and computers, Mr Phongprapha added. America's imports of electrical and electronics products from Thailand were valued at US$35.6 billion in 2024, a jump from $16.3 billion in 2020, according to the Electrical and Electronics Institute. US exports of such products to Thailand stood at only $3.46 billion in 2024, up from $2.02 billion in 2020. A source from an IT distributor noted that it's too early to estimate the full impact of the tariffs on exports of computer components. The primary concern lies in indirect effects. If local exporters overall face a higher export tariff, their businesses would be affected, which could result in them consuming less or investing less in new IT products. Kasame Srilertchaipanij, vice-president for marketing at IT City, said if the US imposes a higher import tariff, tech products may need to explore new destinations and increase sales in alternative regions. PCB WOES Washington's new trade policy has triggered fresh worries over Thailand's fast-growing printed circuit board (PCB) industry, with PCB exports to the US expected to drop this year. PCBs are a key component of electronic devices, including smartphones and computers, as well as electric vehicles (EVs). The US's steep import tax on PCBs from Thailand has caused Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) to downgrade its projection of overall PCB export growth to 2% in 2025, down from 3.9%, under the worst-case scenario of a 36% tariff. Some 80% of Thailand's PCB output is exported to major markets, including China, the US and Japan, demonstrating the country's growing influence in the global supply chain, said Narucha Ruchuphan, deputy secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BoI). Last year Thailand was the sixth largest exporter of PCBs to the US, making up 4% of total PCBs shipped to America. China was ranked first with a 31% share, followed by Taiwan (29%), Japan (6%) and South Korea and Canada, each with 5%, according to K-Research. Many entrepreneurs, including those from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan, are interested, or have already invested in developing PCB production facilities here, partly because they want to avoid the impact of geopolitical conflicts, said the BoI. Companies specialising in PCB manufacturing and assembly have applied for investment incentives for 130 projects, with a total investment value of 202 billion baht over the past three years. The investment growth makes Thailand the largest PCB manufacturer in Southeast Asia and among the top five globally. HARD HIT ON RICE Chookiat Ophaswongse, honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, warned that a potential 36% tariff on Thai jasmine rice would have a drastic impact on pricing. Currently, the price of Thai jasmine rice stands at $1,100 a tonne, but with the imposition of the tariff, the cost would rise to $1,496 a tonne. He said if the negotiations succeed in lowering the tariff to 20%, which is similar to Vietnam's rate, the price would still see an increase to $1,320 a tonne. Meanwhile, Vietnam's high-quality jasmine rice is $900 a tonne. With a 20% tariff applied, the price would be $1,080, further widening the price gap between Thai and Vietnamese jasmine rice. This may encourage more US buyers to purchase Vietnamese rice and potentially reduce Thailand's share of the US jasmine rice market. Mr Chookiat added that if exports decline, Thai jasmine rice prices may drop significantly. However, finding new markets poses a challenge as Thai rice consistently has higher prices than its competitors. The global jasmine rice market is already limited to select regions, and expanding into the European market is difficult. Meanwhile, Vietnam has acquired significant shares in Asian markets such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia, which are now witnessing increased export volumes. "The competition in the jasmine rice market is fierce, while other rice varieties are also facing intense rivalry," said Mr Chookiat. Regarding potential adjustments, he said adapting to such conditions is difficult as the rice trade operates on slim margins, with the primary focus on volume. Government support appears unlikely, except for minimal assistance to farmers. "We really don't know what to do because all of us have already cut costs and there is nothing left to cut. Employment is linked to export volume, and a decline in exports directly threatens jobs," he said. Mr Chookiat added that in the first half of this year, Thailand exported only 3.6 million tonnes of rice, a significant 30% decrease from last year. In contrast, Vietnam managed to export 5.2 million tonnes during the same period. "We predict that Thailand's total rice exports will not meet the 7.5-million-tonne target. The association plans to reassess this target after analysing export figures for the latter half of the year," he said. Thailand shipped 830,000 tonnes of rice to the US -- the largest export market for Thai jasmine rice -- last year, comprising 630,000 tonnes of Thai jasmine rice and 200,000 tonnes of Thai fragrant rice. Each year, Thailand exports about 1.3-1.4 million tonnes of Thai jasmine rice. FEAR OF PERMANENT LOSSES The silver jewellery sector is voicing increasing worries about its future as a potential US tariff on Thai products looms. If the US imposes a 36% tariff on Thai products, producers anticipate a significant drop in orders. Buyers may press producers and exporters to absorb some of the tariff costs, which could lead to lower product prices. "Our primary concern is the possibility of customers shifting their orders to countries like India and China or even relocating their production bases. Once customers make the switch, it's hard to win them back, which could result in a permanent loss," said Sidthisak Limvatanayingyong, president of the Thai Silver Exporters Association. He said a tariff rate around 26% is more favourable for producers and allows them to remain competitive, as this aligns with India's rate. "If Thailand can secure a comparative rate, we anticipate growth of 3-5% in the silver jewellery sector this year. Conversely, if this does not happen, we could see a decline of 10-20%," he warned. The US is the largest export market for Thailand's silver jewellery, making up nearly 30% of the total export value of $2 billion. In the first five months of this year, Thailand exported silver jewellery worth about $900 million, with $560 million going to the US. Mr Sidthisak said while the tariff situation may change again in the future, silver jewellers must navigate through these tough times to ensure their survival. "We need to look for new markets in collaboration with relevant government bodies and private associations. Finding alternative markets to mitigate the decline in US orders is challenging, but it's essential to ease the situation," he said. He emphasised that Thailand's silver jewellery industry serves as an upstream supplier for the US. He believes that Americans generally do not engage in this sector and may not have the desire to do so. The gems and jewellery sector is vital for Thailand, generating around $8 billion in export revenue annually. The industry is complex, employing a million people, predominantly small and medium-sized enterprises, with about 80% being locally owned. Currently, Thailand exports about 40-50 billion baht of jewellery to the US. The higher tariff would increase product prices and diminish Thailand's competitive edge in the industry, said Suriyon Sriorathaikul, managing director of Beauty Gems Co. He called on the government to alleviate the financial pressures faced by exporters, suggesting support from the Export-Import Bank of Thailand and a reduction in corporate income tax to enhance employment opportunities. He proposed initiatives to encourage tourists to purchase jewellery in Thailand. Sumeth Prasongphongchai, director of the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand, said higher tariffs could adversely impact mass-market and original equipment manufacturer production facilities. If countries like Vietnam and Malaysia benefit from lower tariffs, there is a risk that importers may relocate their production there, drawn by more affordable labour costs. On the other hand, when it comes to high-end jewellery, he said buyers will continue to seek out Thai craftsmanship, which poses a challenge for relocating production. WIDESPREAD DISRUPTION Chanintr Chalisarapong, president of the Thai Pet Food Trade Association and the Thai Tuna Industry Association, said a potential 36% tariff on exports to the US could severely disrupt trade for all businesses. Thailand's pet food exports are significant, amounting to about 30 billion baht each year, with the US the largest and fastest-growing market. American importers have paused their orders, awaiting clearer policy guidance before Aug 1 after having previously rushed to stock up, he said. Mr Chanintr said that relief measures may not be a solution in this case because it requires a significant amount of funds, as Thailand exports around 1.8 trillion baht in goods to the US. He added that an appropriate solution should be a tariff closer to 20%. If the US imposes additional economic challenges on Thailand, local consumers will be affected and have a reduced ability to purchase US products. He said the potential reduction of import tariffs on US goods to 0%, similar to what Vietnam offers, is difficult for Thailand, and it may also be impractical for Vietnam. He added that it's noteworthy that for many products, Thailand has imposed a 0% import tariff, despite an official rate of 20%. When it comes to re-exported goods, the real duty charged is often 0%, a trend that many products follow. While rising tariffs may affect the industry, he said businesses are encouraged to adapt by seeking new export markets, as the Thai pet food sector continues to possess strong competitive advantages. TRANSSHIPMENT CONCERNS The US's reciprocal tariffs have prompted the business sector to pay more heed to America's questions on imports transshipped from its trading partners, which led Trump to enforce high trade barriers. Vietnam successfully clinched a deal with Washington to decrease the tariff to a rate of 20%, down from 46%, but still faces a 40% levy on products exported from an origin country via Vietnam to the US. The more stringent import duty is believed to target Chinese goods using this tactic to bypass US duties, according to media reports. "We are most worried about transshipment. The government must carefully deal with this issue," said Wiwat Hemmondharop, vice-chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The state's actions will cause a change in the Thai export sector, enabling authorities to identify which products are really produced domestically and exported. This means the country's export figures may have been overstated so far, said Jareeporn Jarukornsakul, chairman of the executive committee and group chief executive of WHA Corporation Plc, a Thai industrial estate developer. During the first five months of this year, total exports soared by 14.9% year-on-year, but the increase conflicted with the Manufacturing Production Index, which increased only marginally. Such export growth is likely to result from transshipment, with Thailand used as a transit point for goods exported to third countries, especially exports to the US, which surged by 27% for the period, according to the FTI. The increase of Thai exports to the US over the past 10 years may be partly driven by transshipment, said Ms Jareeporn. "Thailand needs to closely look into this matter. Transshipment does not benefit the country significantly," she said. LIMITED ASSISTANCE Entrepreneurs in Thailand will face an uphill task seeking new markets in place of the US as state measures to help them better compete with other countries by lowering energy costs face constraints, according to energy officials. Electricity and diesel prices are among major factors determining manufacturers' competitiveness in the global market. The current power tariff, which is used to calculate electricity bills, stands at 3.98 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), which is higher than that in Vietnam. According to media reports, retail electricity prices in the neighbouring country range between 1,826.22 dong and 2,444.09 dong, roughly 2.34-3.14 baht per unit. "We can only temporarily subsidise electricity prices," said an official from the Energy Regulatory Commission who requested anonymity. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) has shouldered a huge debt caused by its electricity price subsidy programme, especially in 2022 when the Russian invasion of Ukraine drove up global oil and gas prices. Gas makes up 60% of fuels used for power generation in Thailand. Electricity bills in Thailand remain expensive because part of the price of the bills must reimburse Egat for its previous subsidies. The government also cannot keep the retail prices of diesel at low levels, though it is a major fuel used in the manufacturing sector. "Thailand is not a rich country that can always put a cap on fuel prices at levels desired by businesses. We are also not rich in oil and gas," said Pornchai Jirakulpisan, head of the Oil Fuel Fund Office's policy and strategy department. The government set the maximum domestic diesel price at 30 baht a litre, but during the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war and the 12-day Israel-Iran confrontation in June, it could not fix the price at this rate. Diesel is currently sold at 31.94 baht a litre. The state Oil Fuel Fund, which is used as a buffer against surges in global crude oil prices, has limited money to regulate the prices of diesel, gasoline and gasohol. Oil users' contributions to support the fund and oil excise tax usually makes up more than 40% of the retail price of oil, said Mr Pornchai. Reducing the contributions and tax have been used to relieve the impact of a surge in crude prices. Authorities can also borrow money to subsidise oil prices through the fund, but they are not allowed to incur a heavy debt that will alarmingly weaken the financial status of the fund, he said. EMERGING TRENDS Surinthorn Sunthornsanan, deputy director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion at the Ministry of Commerce, said the ongoing uncertainties and conflicts in global trade have caused three major challenges for Thai companies to adjust themselves accordingly. First is decoupling of the supply chain, dividing by geopolitical factors to countries favoured by US tariffs. This trend affects material sourcing of companies, he said. The second trend is reshoring of production, which refers to the practice of moving manufacturing operations back to a company's home country after previously outsourcing them to another country. Prior to the US's announcement of reciprocal tariffs, this trend gained traction in recent years due to various factors, including rising labour costs in traditional manufacturing hubs, supply chain disruptions and a desire for greater control over production and quality. "The more production reshoring, the less risks companies facing backlash from escalating trade tensions globally. This trend has prompted manufacturers to invest more in their home countries to minimise potential risks," Mr Surinthorn acknowledged. "This trend seems to enable Asean to solidify our status as an ideal network of production because the region positions itself as neutral, does not take sides in global geopolitics and has balanced relations with powerful countries," he pointed out. Finally, there is the possibility that high tariffs imposed by several countries will last long, complicating the global trading landscape. "The current uncertainties make it difficult for companies to lay down strategies as things are hard to predict. We have to work harder to cope with the evolving situation," he noted. "While we expect the best, we must prepare for the worst."
Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Bangkok Post
Nation edgy as decision day looms
The new US tariffs are set to have global repercussions and impact various countries unless negotiations for more favourable rates can be achieved prior to Aug 1. The US intends to impose a 36% reciprocal tariff on Thai goods, which could hinder the competitiveness of Thai products in the US market, especially when compared with rival nations such as Vietnam. Aat Pisanwanich, an analyst in international economics and advisor on Asean affairs at Intelligence Research Consultant, recently explored the implications of the policy, its potential impact, and outlined actions that Thailand ought to pursue moving forward. What are the main objectives of the US tariff measures? The primary goal of the American tariffs is to lower deficits with its trading partners. Last year, the US recorded a global trade deficit of US$1.2 trillion. Additionally, the government aims to boost its revenue from the elevated tariffs to make up for declines in corporate and personal income tax receipts. The revenue generated from these tariffs is expected to be dedicated to military spending and managing immigration under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025). For the 2025 fiscal year, US tariff revenue is projected to reach $100 billion, based on the implementation of universal tariffs at 10%. Should reciprocal tariffs be introduced on Aug 1, the US will gain even more in tariff revenue and could potentially lure investment back to the nation. What are the principles behind the US tariffs? The US has imposed new tariffs, commonly referred to as the "Trump Tariffs" on nearly all countries due to its significant and prolonged trade deficits. These tariffs fall into two main categories: Universal tariffs: Trump announced a baseline 10% universal tariff on all imports to the US, regardless of whether the US has a trade surplus or deficit with them. These tariffs came into effect on April 5. Reciprocal tariffs: Effective as of Aug 1. The tariffs are calculated based on trade data in 2024, using the following formula: Import Tariff Rate (%) = (US trade deficit with a country ÷ US imports from that country) × 100 ÷ 2 For example, the US trade deficit with Thailand in 2024 was $45 billion, while total US imports from Thailand were valued at $63 billion. By applying the formula (45 ÷ 63) × 100 = 71.4% ÷ 2 = 35.7%, the resulting tariff rate is approximately 36%. The US has also enacted product-specific tariffs as part of its trade policy. Under Section 232, which addresses national security, the Department of Commerce is empowered to impose tariffs aimed at protecting the nation's economic security. These include a 25% tariff on imports of steel, aluminium and auto parts. It plans to impose a 50% tariff on copper and a 200% tariff on pharmaceuticals. Under the Tariff Act 1930, the US has set some extraordinarily high tariffs, such as a tariff of over 3,000% on solar panels from Cambodia and a tariff above 300% on those from Thailand. The US administration has utilised Section 301 to impose tariffs on a wide range of Chinese goods. What are the reciprocal tariff rates the US plans to impose on imports? Starting Aug 1, along with a 10% universal tariff applied to all imports, the US will impose reciprocal tariffs on imported products from various countries, with the rate varying by nation. If no agreements are reached before the deadline, the tariff rates will come into effect (see accompanying graphic). Mr Aat outlined the implications of these reciprocal tariffs on exported goods. For instance, consider Product A from Thailand. Previously priced at $100, the cost in the US will rise to $136 after Aug 1. In contrast, Product A from Vietnam, also previously exported to the US at $100, will see an increase resulting in a final price of $120, or $16 less than the Thai product. Are any Thai industries expected to benefit from the US tariff policy? The imposition of a 36% reciprocal tariff is not expected to favour any Thai industries, and the impact will differ from sector to sector. Last year, the value of Thailand's total exports to the US reached about $63 billion, with 85% industrial goods and 15% agricultural products. About 30% of industrial exports are conducted by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while larger exporters, both domestic and foreign, account for the remainder. Mr Aat said the most heavily impacted group would be Thai SMEs, due to the higher tariffs, heightened challenges in terms of competitiveness, and limited working capital. At the same time, they are also facing competition from an influx of Chinese products into the Thai market. Which industries will be negatively impacted? Mr Aat's assessment, based on Thailand's trade surplus value with the US last year, suggests several key industrial products are likely to be adversely affected by the new tariffs. These include communication and telecommunication equipment; computers and data processing systems; machinery parts; car tyres; electronic equipment and semiconductors; electric transformers and power supply equipment; motors and engines; rubber products; and electrical appliances. Additionally, agricultural products expected to be affected include rice and rice products; fresh and dried fruits; fruit and vegetable juices; and fresh and processed vegetables. How will Thai consumers be affected by the US tariff measures? According to Mr Aat, Thai consumers could experience a drop in income caused by a decline in exports, which would significantly slow down the economy. Although expenses may remain stable, the rising cost of living could become increasingly burdensome. There is also a high risk of job losses, business closures, and an increase in household debt. What actions should the government take to support affected industries? Mr Aat said the government must raise and allocate funds to stimulate the economy, as Thailand's economic growth could fall below 1% without such a stimulus, or might even face a contraction. Moreover, the government must provide support to farmers and affected SMEs, which could include tax exemptions, establishing compensation funds, exploring alternative markets, subsidising production costs, and offering low-interest loans. How are other countries assisting affected businesses and individuals? Mr Aat said Thailand should consider China's comprehensive measures, which include broad economic stimulus strategies, consumer support initiatives, the modernisation of manufacturing facilities through advanced technology, and fostering innovation via research funding. China is projected to allocate around $1 trillion to these efforts. Meanwhile, Indonesia has announced plans to distribute cash to low-income groups, along with a 30% discount on train fares, targeting about 18 million low-income individuals at a cost of around $1.3 billion.
Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Bangkok Post
Trump administration to release some Epstein material
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump attempted Friday to control the storm triggered by a bombshell report on his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, ordering the Justice Department to seek the release of testimony from the prosecution of the late, alleged sex-trafficker-to-the-famous. Trump also vowed to sue 'the ass off' The Wall Street Journal and its owner Rupert Murdoch after the newspaper said that in 2003 the future president wrote a raunchy letter to Epstein, referring to their shared 'secret.' 'I look forward to getting Rupert Murdoch to testify in my lawsuit against him and his 'pile of garbage' newspaper, the WSJ. That will be an interesting experience!!!' Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. Attorney General Pam Bondi said the Justice Department would ask a court to unseal grand jury testimony from the case against Epstein, apparently in hopes of dampening fury among many of Trump's most loyal supporters over what they see as a White House cover-up. Epstein, a financier, was found hanging dead in his cell in New York in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges that sexually exploited dozens of underage girls at his homes in New York and Florida. The case sparked conspiracy theories, especially among Trump's far-right voters, about an alleged international cabal of wealthy paedophiles. Epstein's death — declared a suicide — before he could face trial super-charged the narrative. When Trump returned to power for a second term this January, his supporters clamored for revelations about Epstein's supposed list of clients. But Bondi issued an official memo in July declaring that there was no such list. The discontent in Trump's MAGA, or Make America Great Again, base poses a rare challenge to the 79-year-old Republican's control of the political narrative in America. It remained unclear whether a court would authorise the unsealing of what is usually highly secret grand jury testimony. Even if such material were made public, it was also unclear whether it would shed much, if any, light on the main questions raised in the conspiracy theories — particularly the existence and possible contents of an Epstein client list. Naked woman and signature Trump was friends with Epstein and the two were photographed and videoed together at parties over the years, although there has never been evidence shown of wrongdoing. The Wall Street Journal article published late Thursday was damaging because it indicated a shared interest in sex. The Journal reported that Trump had wished Epstein a happy 50th birthday in 2003 with a letter featuring a hand-drawn naked woman and referring to their 'secrets.' The letter was reportedly among a slew of well-wishes from other rich and well-known figures for a birthday album. A furious Trump said on Truth Social that the purported letter was a 'Scam' and 'Fake.' Trump also said that the Journal's chief editor, Emma Tucker, had been told the letter was fake and that she shouldn't publish it. According to the Journal, the Trump letter contained the outline of a naked woman, apparently drawn with a marker pen, and had the future president's signature 'Donald' mimicking pubic hair. It ends, according to the newspaper, with 'Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret.' Trump reacted in a series of furious social media posts, saying 'it's not my language. It's not my words.'
