Lawmakers Threaten Contempt Against Attorney General Bondi Over Epstein Files
Two congressional lawmakers have threatened the Department of Justice (DOJ) with a congressional sanction for alleged failure to fully comply with a legal deadline for releasing files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Contempt Threat Details
Reps. Ro Khanna (D-California) and Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky), co-sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, initiated the effort to compel the release of these files. Both lawmakers have expressed dissatisfaction with the initial release, citing extensive redactions and missing information.
Massie stated on CBS's "Face the Nation" that he and Khanna are discussing and drafting inherent contempt proceedings against Attorney General Pam Bondi. Inherent contempt is a rarely used congressional power allowing Congress to fine or arrest individuals obstructing legislative functions, with the last successful application occurring in the 1930s. Khanna noted that the House could take such action without Senate approval, potentially resulting in a fine for Attorney General Bondi, and anticipated bipartisan support for this measure.
Justice Department's Response
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the DOJ's partial release of documents on NBC's "Meet the Press." Blanche asserted that the materials released, and those scheduled for release, adhere to the requirements of the Epstein Files Transparency Act. He explained that hundreds of lawyers are reviewing the remaining documents to protect victims' information.
Despite the DOJ's defense, lawmakers from both parties have voiced continued dissatisfaction. Senator Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) commented on ABC's "This Week" that any perception of an incomplete disclosure could prolong scrutiny for the department, suggesting a full release of all information. Blanche dismissed the contempt threats, stating that lawmakers criticizing Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel lacked understanding of the situation.
Document Release Issues
The initial document release on Friday contained limited new information regarding Epstein, leading to accusations that the department was not complying with the law. One included photograph showed a desk with several images, including one of former President Trump. This specific photograph, among more than a dozen others, was temporarily unavailable in the DOJ's "Epstein Library" by Saturday.
On Sunday, the Department of Justice re-uploaded the photograph to X, providing an explanation. The Southern District of New York had flagged the image for potential action to protect victims. The DOJ temporarily removed it for review. Following the review, it was determined that no Epstein victims were depicted in the photograph, leading to its reposting without alterations or redactions. The department did not provide an explanation for the removal of other photos. Blanche stated that the DOJ was not redacting information related to Trump or any other individual involved with Epstein. He clarified that photos were removed from public files if a judge in New York ordered the department to address concerns raised by victims or victim rights groups about the material.
Earlier on Sunday, the DOJ also posted a new version of the 119-page grand jury transcript from the case of Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell to X. The original version had been entirely redacted. The new version features minimal redactions, with the DOJ stating that documents and photos will continue to be reviewed consistent with the law and with caution for victims and their families.