US Lawmakers Threaten Legal Action Over Unreleased Epstein Files
A pair of US lawmakers are poised to take legal action against Attorney General Pam Bondi over the incomplete release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The partial disclosure from the Department of Justice (DoJ) has sparked frustration among politicians and survivors alike.
Background on the Epstein Files
– The Epstein files encompass a vast collection of information gathered during two criminal investigations into Epstein by the US Justice Department.
– A law mandating the release of these documents was signed by former President Donald Trump in November, following mounting pressure from his supporters and Republican colleagues.
– The deadline for the release of these files was set for Friday; however, only a fraction of the material was made public, and many documents were heavily redacted.
Lawmakers Respond
– Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, a leading advocate for the full disclosure of the Epstein files, has voiced his intention to initiate contempt proceedings against Bondi. He argues that the DoJ is flouting the spirit and the letter of the law.
– Massie stated, The quickest and most effective way to achieve justice for these victims is to bring inherent contempt against Pam Bondi, which doesn’t require court intervention.
– Inherent contempt is a seldom-used legal measure available to both the Senate and House, a mechanism not invoked for nearly a century, as noted by the American Bar Association.
– Massie is collaborating with fellow Congress member Ro Khanna, a Democrat, to draft the necessary documents for this action.
Bipartisan Coalition Building
– Khanna elaborated on their plan, indicating that the contempt proceedings would impose fines on Bondi for each day of non-compliance in releasing the documents.
– Unlike impeachment, which requires broader support, this contempt action would only need backing from the House of Representatives.
DoJ’s Position
– Todd Blanche, Bondi’s deputy, downplayed the lawmakers’ threats, stating, Not even a little bit. Bring it on. We are doing everything we’re supposed to be doing to comply with the statute.
– Blanche acknowledged the extensive nature of the task, explaining: You’re talking about a million or so pages of documents, virtually all of which contain victim information. Compliance doesn’t mean releasing everything on the deadline but providing materials progressively.
Diverging Opinions
– Democratic Senator Tim Kaine expressed a more cautious approach, suggesting that contempt or impeachment measures might be premature. He advocated for alternative strategies within appropriations bills to encourage compliance without escalating tensions.
– On the release front, Blanche revealed that some Epstein-related files posted on the DoJ’s website were later removed due to concerns raised by victims. Notably, one image featuring Trump was reinstated after a review.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the Epstein files highlights the ongoing struggle for transparency in the wake of grave allegations. As lawmakers threaten legal action against Attorney General Pam Bondi, the hope for full disclosure remains a hot-button issue. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining if more information will be made public and whether Congress will take further action to secure justice for Epstein’s victims.