Justice Department Releases Epstein Files Amid Political Pressure

The U.S. Department of Justice released some files related to Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, sparking controversy among lawmakers. According to The Guardian, the release was incomplete, violating the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of all documents within 30 days.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledged that the release included several hundred thousand documents but did not fulfill the full requirement. Lawmakers including Representatives Robert Garcia and Jamie Raskin threatened legal action, demanding complete transparency.

The release included photographs and court records, but many documents were redacted, raising frustration from survivors and activists. Critics like Senator Chuck Schumer emphasized that the administration was breaking the law, arguing for full disclosure.

The initial release included notable photographs, such as those of former President Bill Clinton, but little new information on high-profile individuals like Donald Trump was disclosed. According to the Chicago Tribune, the DOJ plans to continue releasing documents over the coming weeks, yet the partial release has incited anger from both sides of the aisle, with calls for accountability growing louder.