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 Rep. Robert Garcia. Speaking to the press on Capitol Hill, Garcia discussed Bondi’s testimony, stating that she attributed the errors and lack of protection for survivors in the investigation to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Garcia mentioned that he directly inquired about Bondi’s discussions with Trump regarding Epstein.
According to Garcia, Bondi declined to respond to any queries regarding Trump’s involvement in the Epstein files, stating that she would not discuss the president. Fellow Democratic lawmakers criticized Bondi for her reluctance to address questions related to Trump during the hearing.
Virginia Rep. James Walkinshaw reported that he had asked Bondi about Trump’s prior knowledge of Epstein’s activities before they were made public. Bondi’s response, as conveyed by Walkinshaw, indicated uncertainty about the extent of Trump’s awareness.
During her testimony before the House Oversight Committee, Bondi acknowledged errors in redactions within the Epstein files but emphasized the Department’s commitment to transparency and accountability. She stated that the Department was prepared to investigate any potential criminal activities associated with Epstein and his associates.
Bondi described the release of the files as a complex process and affirmed that the Justice Department had operated lawfully. Survivors of Epstein’s crimes gathered outside the hearing location, expressing concerns about the release of sensitive information and demanding accountability from Bondi. Committee chair, Kentucky Rep. James Comer, assured the survivors of pushing for the full disclosure of the files as mandated by law.
Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection to the Epstein case and has not faced criminal accusations or investigations. The survivors’ advocacy for justice was highlighted during the hearing, with Comer expressing support for their cause.
