Bondi appeared before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, where lawmakers repeatedly challenged how the department released millions of investigation documents linked to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Several victims attended the hearing and sat directly behind her.
In her opening remarks, Bondi described Epstein as a “monster” and apologised to survivors for the abuse they suffered. However, Democratic lawmakers accused the department of failing to properly redact victims’ names and, in some cases, releasing sensitive images that had remained protected for decades.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal asked survivors in the room to stand if they had been unable to meet justice department officials. All present rose. She then urged Bondi to apologise for the handling of the files. Bondi dismissed the questioning as “theatrics” and rejected the demand.
Bondi said officials worked within strict legal deadlines and moved quickly to remove any names released inadvertently. Survivor Marina Lacerda later said Bondi had ignored attempts at contact and accused the department of trying to intimidate victims into silence.
Bipartisan anger over Epstein documents
Tensions escalated further as Republican and Democratic lawmakers criticised the redaction of names belonging to individuals not legally protected. Some members of Congress reviewed unredacted files, prompting the department to restore at least one previously hidden name.
Republican congressman Thomas Massie pressed Bondi on accountability, calling the issue “bigger than Watergate”. Bondi dismissed the accusation as political theatre. FBI Director Kash Patel added there was no evidence Epstein trafficked women to businessman Les Wexner, who has previously said Epstein stole millions from him while acting as his financial adviser.
Questions raised over Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
California congressman Ted Lieu referenced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor during debate on the files, noting growing pressure for him to testify in the United States. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing and settled a civil case in 2022 without admitting liability.
Lieu displayed an image from the files showing the former prince in a compromising pose with a woman, though no context or evidence of criminal conduct accompanied the photograph. Bondi replied that such questions should be directed at former attorney general Merrick Garland. Lieu agreed Garland had “dropped the ball”.
Immigration shootings add to tensions
Lawmakers also confronted Bondi over fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis that triggered nationwide protests. Democratic congressman Steve Cohen called the killings “executions” and criticised the absence of a federal investigation.
Bondi defended federal authorities, arguing elected officials had inflamed tensions and obstructed law enforcement. Republican committee chairman Jim Jordan supported her stance and praised enforcement measures linked to President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Also read: Ex-police chief admits Trump said Epstein’s behaviour was known
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