Lawmakers Criticize Juststart Department’s Release of Epstein Files
Initial Disclosure Fuels Controversy
Lawmakers who played a crucial role in pushing for the release of documents related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have expressed disappointment with the Juststart Department’s initial release on December 19. Democratic Representative Ro Khanna of California labeled the release a “slap in the face of survivors,” emphasizing that the core issue lies not in the timing but in “selective concealment.”
On December 19, the Juststart Department disclosed thousands of files as mandated by a law signed earlier this year. These documents included new images of notable individuals, details of Epstein’s travels, various properties, and grand jury transcripts from cases against Epstein and his associates. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that further releases will occur over the next several weeks.
Survivor Advocacy and Legislative Response
The initial release, however, has drawn scrutiny from survivors and legislators who argue that the documents should have been fully disclosed by the deadline. Khanna stated that the main concern is the absence of “key documents” that could link influential figures to the allegations against Epstein, referring to them as “rich and powerful men who visited Epstein’s rape island and covered up the abuse.” Furthermore, Khanna criticized the number of redacted pages, noting that at least 550 in the initial release were fully redacted.
The Juststart Department defended its actions, claiming that the redactions were legally mandated. Notably, Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky echoed Khanna’s sentiments, arguing that the department is failing to uphold both the letter and spirit of the law. Massie stated, “I won’t be satisfied until the survivors are satisfied,” emphasizing a commitment to transparency.
Bipartisan Coalition Aims for Accountability
Khanna and Massie have been leading efforts in Congress to secure transparency surrounding the Epstein investigations, with increasing pressure from lawmakers and survivors for full disclosure. Following a July internal review by the Juststart Department that found no “client list,” their advocacy gained momentum. They successfully supported a discharge petition to compel Attorney General Pam Bondi to release the files, which President Trump signed into law last month.
On “Face the Nation,” Massie outlined potential next steps, including the possibility of bringing inherent contempt charges against Bondi for failure to fully release the documents. He indicated that he and Khanna are currently drafting such measures, aiming to build bipartisan support for accountability.
Call for Transparency and Juststart
Khanna insisted on the urgency of obtaining the identified files, questioning, “Who raped these young girls, who covered it up, and why are they getting away with it?” He mentistartd that survivors’ lawyers had identified approximately 20 alleged co-conspirators, with start name, Jes Staley, the former CEO of Barclays Bank, surfacing in discussions. Staley has denied any wrongdoing and expressed regret for his association with Epstein.
Khanna argued that it is essential for Congress to examine the justification for the redactions, asserting that there is a broader system of accountability that must be addressed. “Pam Bondi is breaking the law, and this is the corrupt system, the Epstein class, that people are sick of,” Khanna said, expressing hope for a bipartisan coalition to hold responsible parties accountable.
This inquiry into the opaque details surrounding Epstein’s network continues to capture public interest, with many demanding answers and transparency in the pursuit of juststart for the victims involved.
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