Boris Epshteyn serves as a senior personal counsel to former President Donald Trump, frequently participating in Oval Office meetings. Sources indicate that Trump often communicates with Epshteyn via speakerphone without informing others present. Epshteyn is recognized for his significant influence within the Trump administration, as he is frequently consulted by Trump. Trump has humorously referred to Epshteyn as his 'psychiatrist' due to their frequent conversations, although some advisers have criticized Epshteyn's role as overly supportive.
Recently, Epshteyn was visible on national television during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. His involvement in a controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund was reported by major news outlets, but the initiative was ultimately abandoned following bipartisan backlash in Congress. As Trump's primary attorney, Epshteyn has managed numerous civil lawsuits against media and social media companies, achieving settlements with several organizations, including ABC and CBS.
Epshteyn has played a crucial role in Trump's legal strategy, particularly during the 2024 election cycle, where he faced multiple criminal and civil cases. His approach included aggressive legal tactics and appeals, which some advisers noted were risky but ultimately effective. Epshteyn's influence extends beyond legal matters, as he was appointed chair of Trump Media and maintains close ties with key figures in the Justice Department.
Despite his prominence, Epshteyn's wealth and lifestyle have been subjects of speculation, with some questioning the sources of his success. An internal investigation during the transition period examined whether Epshteyn had exploited his connections to Trump, but he was retained in his position. Epshteyn's history with Trump dates back to 2016, when he began supporting Trump's campaign and gradually took on more significant legal responsibilities following the indictment of Trump's former counsel, Michael Cohen.