The United States Department of Justice, under the leadership of Attorney General Pam Bondi, is currently under fire from members of Congress. The contention arises from delays in the release of documents related to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Despite a mandated deadline, crucial files remain undisclosed, leading to bipartisan frustration and the threat of legal repercussions.
"We're less concerned about the delay and more concerned about the documents that are being withheld," said Rep. Ro Khanna.
The focal point of the controversy is the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a law championed by Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY). This legislation called for the release of all investigative records concerning Epstein by December 19. However, this deadline passed without the full disclosure of the documents, which reportedly span millions of pages either sealed or heavily redacted. Khanna and Massie are now seeking to appoint a special master through the Southern District of New York to ensure the release of the files and to prevent any further withholding of information.
In a statement to NPR, Khanna emphasized the shift in concern from the release's timing to the transparency of the documents themselves. The lawmakers are particularly interested in gaining access to FBI interview statements from Epstein's victims, which are believed to name influential individuals who either participated in the abuse or helped conceal it. They also seek internal Department of Justice memos explaining the absence of charges against certain individuals linked to Epstein.
Attorney General Bondi has defended the DOJ's cautious approach, arguing that the extensive redactions are necessary to protect the privacy and dignity of Epstein’s victims. The department is reportedly analyzing approximately 5.2 million files and has dedicated hundreds of lawyers to the process. Sources have suggested that this review may not conclude until late January, as per the Daily Beast.
Despite the DOJ’s explanations, dissatisfaction among critics persists. Khanna and Massie are preparing a contempt of Congress action against Bondi. According to their plan, Bondi could face daily fines following a 30-day grace period if the files remain undisclosed.
The situation places Bondi in a challenging position as bipartisan pressure mounts. The controversy has also rekindled interest in President Donald Trump's historical association with Epstein. Although President Trump has acknowledged a past social connection with Epstein, he has consistently denied any knowledge or involvement in Epstein's criminal activities.
Jeffrey Epstein was indicted on sex trafficking charges by the Southern District of New York in 2019 but died in federal custody before his trial could commence. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, was later found guilty and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Lawmakers argue that Epstein's death does not exonerate others potentially involved in or complicit with his crimes. The documents in question may provide long-awaited insights into how Epstein was able to operate without facing justice for years.
The battle now moves to the courts. Should a special master be appointed, it could compel the DOJ to reveal names and records that have been strictly guarded. For Bondi, the stakes are high, as lawmakers signal dwindling patience and warn of impending consequences should the Epstein files continue to be inaccessible.
