Former President Donald Trump has vowed to release all remaining files related to President John F. Kennedy’s assassination if he is reelected in November. “This time I’m just going to do it,” Trump declared during an episode of the All-In podcast released Thursday.
When co-host Chamath Palihapitiya inquired about the JFK files that were not made public during Trump’s first term, Trump revealed he had been advised to keep some information secret and suggested the CIA was involved in the cover-up. “Well, this wasn’t CIA that asked me, but I think CIA was probably behind it,” Trump said, adding that they preferred he not release all the information.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent candidate running against Trump and President Joe Biden, has claimed the CIA was involved in his uncle’s assassination. The podcast hosts referenced RFK Jr.’s assertions when discussing the CIA with Trump.
During his presidency, Trump had pledged to release the Kennedy files but decided in April 2018 to delay full disclosure, citing potential harm to national security, law enforcement, or foreign affairs. In that month, the National Archives released about 19,000 records.
Trump recalled releasing many files but explained he was advised by trusted individuals to hold back some information. “And I’m saying, ‘Why? Tell me why?’ and they said, ‘Sir, I think it needs a little more time,'” Trump recounted. He respected their advice at the time but now promises to release the rest if reelected. “It’s going to be done early on,” he said, adding that it will be very interesting for the public to see and learn from the information.
As the conversation shifted, Trump hinted at additional revelations. “There are other things we’re going to release too,” he said, promising to discuss them off-camera.
