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Congressional committee issues subpoena to Attorney General
Attorney General Pam Bondi has been formally summoned by a US House committee to address concerns about the Justice Department's investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The subpoena, issued by Republican House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, seeks answers regarding potential mismanagement of the probe.
Committee investigates alleged mishandling of Epstein files
In a letter accompanying the subpoena, Comer stated the committee is examining the Justice Department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a law signed by former President Donald Trump last November. The legislation mandates the release of all documents related to Epstein's case.
Comer emphasized Bondi's direct oversight of the department's file review and release process, asserting that her testimony is critical to the committee's inquiry. Bondi has been ordered to appear before the panel on April 14.
Bipartisan criticism over redaction failures
The Justice Department has faced mounting scrutiny after releasing millions of documents related to Epstein, with lawmakers from both parties accusing officials of improper redactions. Critics argue that the department failed to adequately protect the identities of Epstein's victims while shielding non-victims from exposure.
Republican Representative Nancy Mace previously introduced a motion to subpoena Bondi, alleging a potential "cover-up" by the department. The Justice Department has dismissed the latest subpoena as "completely unnecessary," noting that lawmakers have been invited to review unredacted files in person and that Bondi remains available for direct discussions with Congress.
Justice Department defends transparency efforts
"This subpoena is completely unnecessary. Lawmakers have been invited to view the unredacted files for themselves at the Department of Justice, and the Attorney General has always made herself available to speak directly with members of Congress."
Justice Department spokesperson
The department maintains that it has consistently provided policymakers with the facts surrounding the case, though bipartisan frustration persists over the handling of sensitive information.
Bondi joins high-profile witnesses before committee
If Bondi complies with the subpoena-she has not indicated otherwise-she will become the latest in a series of prominent figures to testify before the House Oversight Committee. Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton appeared before the panel last month as part of its broader investigations.
