WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday defended the Justice Department’s decision to release just a fraction of the Jeffrey Epstein files by the congressionally mandated deadline as necessary to protect survivors of sexual abuse by the disgraced financier.
Blanche pledged that the Trump administration would eventually meet its legal obligations, stressing the need for caution in releasing thousands of documents potentially containing sensitive information.
Friday’s partial release of the Epstein files has sparked significant criticism from Democrats, accusing the Republican administration of attempting to conceal information.
Blanche labeled the accusations disingenuous, highlighting ongoing calls for transparency as the Trump administration navigates the ramifications of investigations into Epstein, who had connections with political and business elites.
“The reason we are still reviewing documents is simply to protect victims,” Blanche told NBC’s “Meet the Press.” “The same individuals complaining about the lack of documents produced on Friday also don’t want us to protect victims.”
Democratic lawmakers argue that the partial release indicates a cover-up, with Rep. Jamie Raskin claiming the Justice Department aims to shield information that could embarrass Trump or other associates connected to Epstein.
Blanche defended the decision to remove certain files from public access due to the inclusion of victims’ images and reiterated that all necessary measures are being taken for compliance with law, dismissing the notion of any political cover-up.
The released documents offer insights into nearly two decades of government scrutiny into Epstein’s activities; however, significant records supposedly documenting victim interviews and critical internal deliberations remain undisclosed, raising further questions about transparency.
Trump, despite his past friendship with Epstein, has resisted the public’s calls for transparency regarding the released files, asserting there’s nothing of substance worth unveiling.
Blanche acknowledged the ongoing review of documents, revealing that they have identified more potential victims recently. Meanwhile, discussions of impeachment regarding Attorney General Pam Bondi circulate among bipartisan lawmakers, driven by perceived failures to comply with transparency mandates.
As discussions continue, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries calls for a comprehensive investigation into the lack of transparency while refraining from endorsing impeachment measures.
