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Justice Department cancels Bondi's deposition
The U.S. Department of Justice informed the House Oversight Committee on Thursday that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will not testify next week about the federal investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, citing her recent departure from office.
Subpoena issued while Bondi was still AG
A committee spokesperson confirmed to the BBC that Bondi was subpoenaed in her official capacity as Attorney General. President Donald Trump removed her from the position last week, ending her authority to speak on behalf of the department.
Lawmakers demand testimony regardless
Republican Representative Nancy Mace argued that Bondi's resignation does not nullify her obligation to appear. "The subpoena stands, and Congressional oversight continues," she said. Mace urged Committee Chairman James Comer to "publicly reaffirm" Bondi's duty to testify.
Ranking Democrat Robert Garcia agreed, stating, "She must testify immediately. If she refuses, we will pursue contempt charges."
Background on the subpoena
In March, Comer formally summoned Bondi to address potential mismanagement of the Epstein investigation. The subpoena cited her oversight of document releases under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Trump signed into law last November.
The law requires the Justice Department to disclose all materials related to Epstein. After millions of pages were released, bipartisan criticism emerged over redactions, including accusations that some survivors' identities were insufficiently protected while others' were allegedly shielded.
Committee presses forward with hearings
The Oversight Committee has already questioned high-profile figures, including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. This week, it announced plans to hear from Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates in June. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is also expected to testify in the coming weeks.
Bondi silent on next steps
Bondi has not responded to requests for comment on whether she will comply with the committee's demands at a later date.
