Attorney General Pam Bondi has robustly dismissed allegations regarding missing Jeffrey Epstein files, asserting that the FBI is currently reviewing "tens of thousands" of videos featuring the disgraced financier with minors. This statement comes amid growing scrutiny and skepticism from Republican lawmakers, particularly Rep. James Comer, who expressed doubts about the Justice Department's possession of these critical records.
During a press briefing on May 7, 2025, Bondi addressed concerns raised by Comer, the Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee. She stated, "There are tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn and there are hundreds of victims. The FBI is diligently going through that." Her comments were meant to clarify the ongoing investigation and the volume of materials being processed, emphasizing that no individual victim's information would be released due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Comer, speaking on a podcast hosted by conservative commentator Benny Johnson, expressed his belief that the Justice Department does not have the Epstein files, suggesting that if they did, Bondi would have released them by now. He raised concerns about potential document destruction by former Justice Department staffers, stating, "The attorney general does not have them or she would’ve turned them over. The president ordered them released, the attorney general ordered them released. We all know they have not been released." This skepticism reflects a broader unease among some Republicans regarding the handling of the Epstein case.
Bondi's remarks follow her earlier commitment to release Epstein-related documents during her campaign trail. Epstein, who died in custody in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking, has been a focal point of ongoing investigations and public interest due to the high-profile nature of his associates and the allegations against him.
On February 27, 2025, Bondi released what she termed the "first phase" of declassified files. However, this initial release was met with disappointment, even among Trump's supporters. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna took to social media, expressing her frustration: "THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!"
Further criticism came from far-right activist Laura Loomer, who accused Bondi of failing to deliver on her promises, stating, "There is one person who takes the blame for what happened today. It’s @PamBondi. I think she should resign." Loomer's frustration highlights the growing impatience among some factions of the Republican Party regarding the transparency of the Epstein investigation.
As the situation unfolds, the Epstein case has gained renewed attention following the recent death of Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's most vocal victims, who reportedly died by suicide in Australia last week. Her father, Sky Roberts, voiced suspicions surrounding her death, saying, "I believed everything she said. She was my daughter." Giuffre's testimony had previously been pivotal in exposing the extent of Epstein's sex-trafficking network.
In light of these developments, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that the Attorney General's team is working diligently on the files, although no specific timeline for the release of the bulk of the documents has been provided. "I can assure you that the Attorney General and her team are working on this diligently," Leavitt stated, referring to Bondi's commitment to transparency.
Despite the ongoing investigation, skepticism remains prevalent among lawmakers and the public. Comer’s aide maintained that possible "Deep State actors" within the DOJ may have failed to preserve all relevant Epstein documents. This assertion underscores the tension between various factions within the political landscape, as they grapple with the implications of the Epstein case on both political and public trust.
Bondi's efforts to assure the public of the diligence of the FBI in reviewing the extensive materials have not quelled all concerns. Critics argue that the lack of transparency and the slow pace of document releases are unacceptable. "The Epstein file thing was a disaster. They embarrassed themselves. They stepped on a rake for no apparent reason," remarked Megyn Kelly, a prominent voice among Trump supporters.
As the investigation continues, the public's demand for accountability and transparency remains high. The Epstein case, with its complex web of associations and allegations, has become a flashpoint for discussions about power, privilege, and the justice system's effectiveness in addressing high-profile sex crimes.
Glenn Greenwald, a journalist and civil liberties advocate, has also weighed in on the matter, asserting that while he takes Bondi at her word regarding the FBI's review of the videos, there should be a push for clarity on whether Epstein had any connections to government entities. He referenced comments made by Alexander Acosta, the former U.S. Attorney in Florida, who reportedly indicated that Epstein "belonged to intelligence" during his vetting for a position in the Trump administration.
As the narrative around Epstein continues to evolve, the intersection of politics, justice, and public interest will undoubtedly shape the discourse surrounding the release of these files and the broader implications of the case. With the specter of Epstein's connections to powerful figures looming large, the demand for transparency and accountability is more pressing than ever.
In the midst of these developments, it is crucial for individuals affected by similar issues to seek help. For those in the U.S., the National Suicide Prevention Helpline is available at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), offering confidential support 24/7. Internationally, resources such as www.befrienders.org can connect individuals with local helplines.