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Lawmakers escalate pressure over incomplete Epstein documents
Two U.S. congressmen are considering legal action against Attorney General Pam Bondi after her department released only a fraction of the files related to Jeffrey Epstein, falling short of a congressional deadline.
Background and legal demands
The so-called "Epstein files" encompass records from two federal investigations into the late financier and convicted sex offender. A law signed by President Donald Trump in November mandated the full disclosure of these documents by last Friday.
While some material was made public, significant redactions and withheld information have drawn criticism from lawmakers and survivors of Epstein's abuse. The Justice Department (DoJ) has acknowledged that additional files will be released in the coming weeks.
Contempt threats and bipartisan pushback
Republican Representative Thomas Massie, a vocal advocate for transparency, suggested pursuing "inherent contempt" proceedings against Bondi-a rare congressional power not used in nearly a century. He argued that this route, which bypasses the courts, could expedite compliance.
"The quickest way to get justice for these victims is to bring inherent contempt against Pam Bondi," Massie told CBS's Face the Nation.
Democratic Representative Ro Khanna, who is collaborating with Massie, revealed plans to build a bipartisan coalition to fine Bondi daily until all documents are released. Unlike impeachment, such a move would require only House approval.
DoJ defends partial release
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche dismissed the threats, asserting the department's compliance with the law. He cited the volume of records-estimated at over a million pages-and the need to protect victim identities as reasons for the staggered release.
"Bring it on. We are doing everything we're supposed to be doing," Blanche told NBC's Meet the Press.
Blanche also confirmed that some files initially posted on Friday were later removed due to victim privacy concerns, including an image featuring Trump that was later reinstated after review.
Political divisions over next steps
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine urged patience, calling contempt or impeachment efforts "premature." He advocated for alternative tools, such as appropriations bills, to enforce compliance.
Bondi's office has framed the administration as historically transparent, though critics argue the partial release undermines that claim. Trump has yet to comment on the controversy.
