Epstein File Fallout: Justice Department Faces Bipartisan Fury and Contempt Threats

The U.S. Department of Justice is facing mounting bipartisan anger and the threat of contempt of Congress charges over its slow release of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy escalated Monday as former President Bill Clinton joined the chorus, demanding the immediate release of any files involving him.

A Cross-Party Alliance Forms

An unlikely political alliance has formed to pressure Attorney General Pam Bondi. Conservative Republican Representative Thomas Massie and liberal Democrat Ro Khanna announced they are working together on the effort. "The DOJ needs to quit protecting the rich, powerful, and politically connected," Massie posted on X. In an interview, the two lawmakers stated that if their demands aren't met after a 30-day grace period," they will pursue contempt of Congress charges against Bondi in the House next month. They also plan to push for fines of up to $5,000 per day until the documents are delivered.

Pressure Mounts from Clinton and the Senate

Also on Monday, a spokesman for Bill Clinton issued a pointed statement. Angel Urena urged Attorney General Bondi to "immediately release any remaining materials in the Epstein case that refer to Clinton in any way, including photographs." Urena added, "There is widespread suspicion the Justice Department is using selective releases to imply wrongdoing about individuals who have already been repeatedly cleared."

In the Senate, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer introduced legislation to compel legal steps to gain access to all documents. It's unclear if the bill will advance when the Senate returns from recess on January 5.

Victims' Group Alleges "Extreme Redactions"

A group identifying itself as survivors of Epstein's abuse complained that the public has received only "a fraction of the files." In a statement, they said the documents were "riddled with abnormal and extreme redactions with no explanation," and noted that some victims' identities were not redacted. The Justice Department has said it is working to clear more documents for release. The White House had no immediate comment on the matter.