Epstein Files Release Sparks Legal Clash as DOJ Defends Partial Disclosure

The US Department of Justice will release only part of its Jeffrey Epstein files this week. This decision has ignited a major political uproar. Lawmakers from both parties accuse the DOJ of violating federal law.

The controversy centers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act. That law demands full disclosure of documents. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche outlined the phased plan.

Lawmakers Accuse Justice Department of “Breaking the Law”

According to a report from the Hindustan Times, the DOJ plans a partial, phased release. Blanche stated the need to protect victims. He said several hundred thousand documents will be made public.

This approach was immediately condemned. Top Democrats on the House Oversight Committee called it a legal violation. Representatives Robert Garcia and Jamie Raskin are examining all options.

They said survivors deserve justice and the public deserves transparency. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed the criticism. He accused the Justice Department of breaking the law.

Schumer said Senate Democrats are working with victims’ attorneys. Their goal is to assess what is being withheld. The political pressure is intense and bipartisan.

Bipartisan Demand for Full Transparency and Names

The Epstein Files Transparency Act became law on November 19. It gave the DOJ a 30-day deadline for full release. Exceptions are only for victim privacy or national security.

Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has pushed for full disclosure. He is working with Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna. Massie set a clear benchmark for judging the release.

He said the key is whether alleged co-conspirators’ names are included. These names are already known to victims’ lawyers. Massie warned a release without them would be incomplete.

The public and political focus remains on accountability. The demand is for all unclassified records to see the light. This includes documents, communications, and investigative materials.

The phased Epstein files release now faces legal and political challenges. The coming days will test the government’s commitment to transparency. The world is watching for every name and detail.