The Justice Department currently has over 400 attorneys dedicated to the review of the Epstein files, although further document releases are not expected until January 20 or 21. This information was shared by a source familiar with the situation, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussion. The expanding scope of this investigation highlights the ongoing significance of the Epstein case, ensuring it remains a focal point in both Congress and the White House. As the nation approaches midterm elections, the political ramifications of this case are poised to escalate.
The White House has not disputed the figures mentioned in the email concerning the Justice Department's review. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that the administration is adopting an all-hands-on-deck approach to this crucial investigation. He noted that attorneys from various divisions, including the FBI, the Southern District of Florida, and the Southern District of New York, are working tirelessly to sift through the extensive files related to Epstein. The additional resources allocated to this case were first reported by The New York Times.
Blanche stated, "We're asking as many lawyers as possible to commit their time to review the documents that remain." He acknowledged that the necessary redactions to protect victims do take time, but assured the public that these legal requirements would not hinder the release of the materials.
Attorney General Pam Bondi is currently facing scrutiny from Congress due to the delayed rollout of information, which has surpassed the December 19 deadline. This situation has led to calls for accountability, including questions about whether Bondi should face impeachment. Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky who was instrumental in passing the law mandating the release of these documents, took to social media to voice his concerns.
On the Democratic side, lawmakers are exploring their legal options in response to what they perceive as a failure to disclose crucial information. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the Justice Department, accusing Bondi, Blanche, and their colleagues of misleading the public regarding the status of the Epstein files.
The anticipated late January release of documents will put the Justice Department significantly behind the legal deadline. However, some key lawmakers seem inclined to allow the review process to proceed without immediate punitive actions against the Trump administration. Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who also championed the law requiring document releases, expressed optimism that the expanded review signifies progress.
Khanna mentioned, "We are willing to give DOJ a few extra weeks to comply, provided they release the survivors' statements to the FBI naming the other rich and powerful men who abused them or covered up." He emphasized that the eventual release of all information could be shocking to the nation.
The Trump administration has grappled with the fallout from the Epstein files throughout the past year. Although the content of the forthcoming documents remains uncertain, they are expected to provide substantial material for Democratic candidates as they approach the midterms. The recent release of documents revealed that Trump had flown on Epstein's private jet during the 1990s, highlighting a past friendship that later soured. However, these documents did not provide significant new insights into their relationship.
Additionally, the initial document releases included photographs of former President Bill Clinton with women, although their identities were obscured. The House Oversight Committee, led by Republicans, is actively pursuing connections to Clinton and seeking to compel both him and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to testify.
Democrats are strategically using the handling of the Epstein files to portray the Trump administration as more attuned to the interests of the wealthy than to average Americans. Rep. Robert Garcia, the leading Democrat on the oversight panel, stated, "Unlike the President, we don't care who's in the files. Anyone that's involved in the abuse of women and girls should be held accountable."