The U.S. Department of Justice is under intense bipartisan scrutiny after failing to fully release Jeffrey Epstein’s investigative records by the December 19, 2025, deadline mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Signed by President Donald Trump in November, the law required the disclosure of all unclassified documents related to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, with limited redactions primarily to protect victims.
On December 19, the DOJ released an initial batch of thousands of pages, including photos, emails, and flight logs mentioning high-profile figures like Trump and former President Bill Clinton. However, heavy redactions and incomplete disclosure drew immediate backlash. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced rolling releases, citing ongoing reviews.
The controversy escalated on December 24 when the DOJ revealed the FBI and Southern District of New York prosecutors had uncovered over one million additional potentially related documents. Officials stated processing for victim-protecting redactions could take “a few more weeks,” further delaying full compliance.
Bipartisan sponsors Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) accused Attorney General Pam Bondi of violating the law. They are drafting resolutions for inherent contempt proceedings, which could fine Bondi daily until compliance. Massie called it the “most expeditious way to get justice for victims.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer proposed legislation to sue the DOJ, labeling the handling a “blatant cover-up.”
A group of 12 senators demanded an independent audit, while Rep. Robert Garcia called for Bondi’s testimony. Victims’ advocates decried the delays as denying closure.
The DOJ defended its actions, emphasizing victim protection and pledging continued releases. As threats of lawsuits and contempt mount, the episode highlights tensions over transparency in one of America’s most notorious cases.
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