Former Attorney General Pam Bondi avoided answering questions about President Donald Trump during a hearing related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, as revealed by Democratic Representative Robert Garcia. In discussions with reporters on Capitol Hill, Garcia mentioned that Bondi testified that Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche oversaw the investigation into Epstein. Garcia criticized Bondi for deflecting blame onto Blanche for errors in the investigation and for not addressing her interactions with Trump regarding Epstein.
During the hearing, Bondi refused to respond to inquiries about any discussions or directives from Trump concerning the Epstein files. Democratic lawmakers, including Representative Dave Min and Representative James Walkinshaw, expressed frustration with Bondi’s reluctance to address questions about the president’s involvement in the case.
Bondi acknowledged errors in redactions in the Epstein files during her testimony before the House Oversight Committee. She emphasized the Department’s commitment to transparency and accountability and expressed readiness to investigate any criminal activities related to Epstein and his associates. Bondi described the process of releasing the files as complex but within legal boundaries.
Survivors of Epstein’s crimes protested outside the hearing, demanding accountability for the release of sensitive information in the files. They urged lawmakers, including Committee Chair James Comer, to ensure full compliance with legal requirements for releasing the files. Comer pledged to advocate for justice for the survivors.
Despite ongoing speculation, Trump has consistently denied involvement in Epstein’s crimes and has not faced any criminal accusations or investigations regarding the case.