Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4).<h2>What did Bondi say?</h2>During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-strikes-again-attacks-another-journalist-with-bizarre-comment-hatred-in-her-eyes-1780554898613">Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes'</a>"He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased.Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records.<h2>Is DoJ withholding Epstein files?</h2>Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs'</a>Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4). What did Bondi say? During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term. Also read | Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes' "He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased. Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records. Is DoJ withholding Epstein files? Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs' Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release

Melania Trump on Thursday (April 9) issued an unexpected public statement denying any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, pushing back against what she described as long-running false claims circulating online. Speaking on camera at the White House, the 55-year-old said the remarks were necessary to counter misinformation. Her comments come despite no immediate trigger, drawing renewed attention to the Epstein controversy that has lingered during Donald Trump’s presidency. "The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said. "The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility, and respect."&nbsp;Melania Trump firmly denied any association with Epstein, even as past photos showed her and her husband in similar social circles in New York. She said "fake images and statements about Epstein and me" had been circulating on social media" for years now. Be cautious about what you believe: these images and stories are completely false."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-my-daddy-mark-rutte-explains-daddy-comment-about-donald-trump-calls-it-translation-mistake-amid-nato-tensions-1775760651662">Not my daddy! Mark Rutte explains 'daddy' comment about Donald Trump, calls it 'translation mistake' amid NATO tensions</a>&nbsp;Her remarks risk reigniting scrutiny of the Epstein case, which continues to cast a shadow over US politics. Epstein died in custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving minors. The US Justice Department has released extensive files related to the case over the past year, while Donald Trump has repeatedly denied any involvement. "I have never had any knowledge of Epstein's abuse of his victims. I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant. Was never on Epstein's plane, and never visited his private island," Melania Trump said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamabad-truce-talks-us-top-brass-to-visit-pakistan-after-20-yrs-for-iran-ceasefir-1775752158453/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamabad-truce-talks-us-top-brass-to-visit-pakistan-after-20-yrs-for-iran-ceasefir-1775752158453/embed</a>&nbsp;“I have never been legally accused or convicted of a crime in connection with Epstein sex trafficking, abuse of minors, and other repulsive behavior.” She also called on Congress to hold public hearings so survivors can testify under oath.

Melania Trump denies links to Jeffrey Epstein, calls allegations “lies,” and urges Congress to hold hearings for victims as the controversy resurfaces

Melania Trump on Thursday (April 9) issued an unexpected public statement denying any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, pushing back against what she described as long-running false claims circulating online. Speaking on camera at the White House, the 55-year-old said the remarks were necessary to counter misinformation. Her comments come despite no immediate trigger, drawing renewed attention to the Epstein controversy that has lingered during Donald Trump’s presidency. "The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said. "The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility, and respect." Melania Trump firmly denied any association with Epstein, even as past photos showed her and her husband in similar social circles in New York. She said "fake images and statements about Epstein and me" had been circulating on social media" for years now. Be cautious about what you believe: these images and stories are completely false." Also Read: Not my daddy! Mark Rutte explains 'daddy' comment about Donald Trump, calls it 'translation mistake' amid NATO tensions Her remarks risk reigniting scrutiny of the Epstein case, which continues to cast a shadow over US politics. Epstein died in custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving minors. The US Justice Department has released extensive files related to the case over the past year, while Donald Trump has repeatedly denied any involvement. "I have never had any knowledge of Epstein's abuse of his victims. I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant. Was never on Epstein's plane, and never visited his private island," Melania Trump said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamabad-truce-talks-us-top-brass-to-visit-pakistan-after-20-yrs-for-iran-ceasefir-1775752158453/embed “I have never been legally accused or convicted of a crime in connection with Epstein sex trafficking, abuse of minors, and other repulsive behavior.” She also called on Congress to hold public hearings so survivors can testify under oath.

Melania Trump denies Jeffrey Epstein links in surprise statement, calls claims “lies,” urges hearings for victims as controversy resurfaces

'I am not his victim': Melania Trump denies Epstein links in surprise White House statement, says 'lies need to end today'

In a stunning "red-on-red" political escalation, the House Oversight Committee on Tuesday (Mar 17) formally subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify under oath about the Justice Department’s haphazard release of the notorious Jeffrey Epstein files. Led by a vocal faction of Republicans including Nancy Mace, the committee is demanding answers for what they describe as a "White House cover-up" involving missing video evidence and "haphazard" redactions that exposed victims while protecting powerful associates. As Republicans rejoice over the April 14 deposition date, Bondi, who in February taunted lawmakers over "pizzagate" and other conspiracy theories, now faces a bipartisan firing squad determined to unearth why 3 million pages of the sex trafficker's network remain buried.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pam-bondi-subpoenaed-house-oversight-committee-forces-trump-s-ag-to-testify-on-doj-s-alleged-epstein-files-cover-up-bipartisan-vote-1772688470568">Pam Bondi subpoenaed: House oversight committee to force Trump's AG to testify on DOJ's alleged Epstein files 'cover-up'</a><h2>Why did Republicans Subpoena AG Pam Bondi Over Epstein Files?</h2>The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed Pam Bondi, the Trump administration's top law enforcement official, to investigate what they describe as a possible mismanagement of the federal probe into paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. She will appear for a closed-door deposition on April 14. This<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pam-bondi-subpoenaed-house-oversight-committee-forces-trump-s-ag-to-testify-on-doj-s-alleged-epstein-files-cover-up-bipartisan-vote-1772688470568"> follows a committee vote earlier this month</a> to compel Bondi's testimony. At the time, several Republicans joined Democrats in backing the summons.In a letter to Trump's AG Bondi, James Comer, the Republican chairman of the committee, said that they were examining the Justice Department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. He raised concerns about how material in the so-called Epstein Files had been reviewed and disclosed."As attorney general, you are directly responsible for overseeing the department's collection, review and determinations regarding the release of files pursuant to the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and the committee therefore believes that you possess valuable insight into these efforts," Comer said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epstein-hearing-turns-tense-as-pam-bondi-refuses-to-apologise-to-survivors-says-she-won-t-get-in-the-gutter-1770873842476">Epstein hearing turns tense as Pam Bondi refuses to apologise to survivors, says she won’t 'get in the gutter'. Watch!</a><h2>What is the Epstein Files Transparency Act?</h2>The Epstein Files Transparency Act is a federal law signed by US President Donald Trump on November 19, 2025. It mandates the public release of all DoJ records related to the investigation and prosecution of Epstein and his primary accomplice, socialite Ghislaine Maxwell.Lawmakers from both Republican and Democratic parties have condemned the department’s handling of the file release, saying that a significant share of the material is either still undisclosed or so heavily redacted that it is effectively inaccessible.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epstein-files-debacle-doj-exposes-nude-victims-in-catastrophic-file-dump-but-remembers-to-redact-trump-s-face-1770021222053">Shocking Epstein Files debacle: DOJ exposes nude victims in catastrophic file dump, but remembers to redact Trump's face</a><h2>Did the DOJ Withhold Evidence of Epstein's 'Client List'?</h2>Based on assessments by Congress and multiple media outlets, the Justice Department has made public only about half of the six million pages it holds. The withheld documents, believed to number tens of thousands of documents, include those with explicit content or information that could reveal victims’ identities.Lauding the Bondi subpoena, Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who introduced the motion, said, “Every victim deserves justice. Every crime deserves prosecution. But the reality is the rich and powerful rarely face consequences. This is exactly why the Epstein victims must be louder than ever.”“We will not let this go away. We will keep pushing and demanding answers until the truth can no longer be ignored,” she posted on social media.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨JUST IN🚨 The Oversight Committee has officially subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi, after the committee passed our motion to subpoena her earlier this month. She will appear for a deposition on the Department of Justice&#39;s handling of the Epstein investigation and… <a href="https://t.co/3Y793j2Lpe">pic.twitter.com/3Y793j2Lpe</a>&mdash; Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepNancyMace/status/2034021701084733533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.

The House Oversight Committee formally subpoenaed AG Pam Bondi for an April 14 deposition. This comes as Republicans & Democrats accuse DOJ of withholding 3 million pages of Epstein files. Lauding the move, Rep. Nancy Mace warned: “No more dodging.” Why are Republicans turning on Bondi?

In a stunning "red-on-red" political escalation, the House Oversight Committee on Tuesday (Mar 17) formally subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify under oath about the Justice Department’s haphazard release of the notorious Jeffrey Epstein files. Led by a vocal faction of Republicans including Nancy Mace, the committee is demanding answers for what they describe as a "White House cover-up" involving missing video evidence and "haphazard" redactions that exposed victims while protecting powerful associates. As Republicans rejoice over the April 14 deposition date, Bondi, who in February taunted lawmakers over "pizzagate" and other conspiracy theories, now faces a bipartisan firing squad determined to unearth why 3 million pages of the sex trafficker's network remain buried. Also read | Pam Bondi subpoenaed: House oversight committee to force Trump's AG to testify on DOJ's alleged Epstein files 'cover-up' Why did Republicans Subpoena AG Pam Bondi Over Epstein Files? The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed Pam Bondi, the Trump administration's top law enforcement official, to investigate what they describe as a possible mismanagement of the federal probe into paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. She will appear for a closed-door deposition on April 14. This follows a committee vote earlier this month to compel Bondi's testimony. At the time, several Republicans joined Democrats in backing the summons. In a letter to Trump's AG Bondi, James Comer, the Republican chairman of the committee, said that they were examining the Justice Department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. He raised concerns about how material in the so-called Epstein Files had been reviewed and disclosed. "As attorney general, you are directly responsible for overseeing the department's collection, review and determinations regarding the release of files pursuant to the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and the committee therefore believes that you possess valuable insight into these efforts," Comer said. Also read | Epstein hearing turns tense as Pam Bondi refuses to apologise to survivors, says she won’t 'get in the gutter'. Watch! What is the Epstein Files Transparency Act? The Epstein Files Transparency Act is a federal law signed by US President Donald Trump on November 19, 2025. It mandates the public release of all DoJ records related to the investigation and prosecution of Epstein and his primary accomplice, socialite Ghislaine Maxwell. Lawmakers from both Republican and Democratic parties have condemned the department’s handling of the file release, saying that a significant share of the material is either still undisclosed or so heavily redacted that it is effectively inaccessible. Also read | Shocking Epstein Files debacle: DOJ exposes nude victims in catastrophic file dump, but remembers to redact Trump's face Did the DOJ Withhold Evidence of Epstein's 'Client List'? Based on assessments by Congress and multiple media outlets, the Justice Department has made public only about half of the six million pages it holds. The withheld documents, believed to number tens of thousands of documents, include those with explicit content or information that could reveal victims’ identities. Lauding the Bondi subpoena, Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who introduced the motion, said, “Every victim deserves justice. Every crime deserves prosecution. But the reality is the rich and powerful rarely face consequences. This is exactly why the Epstein victims must be louder than ever.” “We will not let this go away. We will keep pushing and demanding answers until the truth can no longer be ignored,” she posted on social media.

The House Oversight Committee formally subpoenaed AG Pam Bondi for an April 14 deposition. This comes as Republicans &amp; Democrats accuse DOJ of withholding 3 million pages of Epstein files. Lauding the move, Rep. Nancy Mace warned: “No more dodging.” Why are Republicans turning on Bondi?

'Rich & powerful rarely face consequences': Why are Republicans rejoicing as House subpoenas Pam Bondi in Epstein files probe?

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'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release

'I am not his victim': Melania Trump denies Epstein links, says 'lies need to..'

Why are Republicans rejoicing as Pam Bondi subpoena in Epstein files probe?