Pam Bondi refuses to answer Trump-Epstein questions in congressional probe
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi declined to answer congressional questions regarding Donald Trump's knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's activities.
- Bondi also refused to confirm if Trump directed her to redact Justice Department files related to the case.
- Democratic lawmakers criticized Bondi's testimony, calling it a "sham" and stating that no substantive questions were answered.
Former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi faced intense questioning from a House committee regarding her role in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, but repeatedly refused to answer key questions about Donald Trump's alleged knowledge of Epstein's crimes. Democratic politicians present at the closed-door interview described Bondi's testimony as unproductive and evasive.
I did not lead every aspect of this effort or conduct that document review myself. I delegated oversight over this process to Deputy Attorney-General Todd Blanche.
During the interview with the House Oversight Committee, Bondi stated she would not discuss the former president's involvement. She cited her voluntary appearance before the committee as grounds for declining questions pertaining to Trump. This stance frustrated lawmakers, with Representative Dave Min of California labeling the proceedings a "sham" and asserting that "They are not answering any questions."
The bottom line is: justice and transparency in this matter have been delivered at the direction of President Trump and his administration.
Specifically, Bondi was asked whether Trump was aware of Epstein's illegal activities before they became public. Representative James Walkinshaw of Virginia reported that Bondi responded, "I'm not certain of the extent of his knowledge." She also declined to confirm or deny whether Trump had directed her to alter or redact Justice Department files made public in connection with the case.
It's a sham in there. They are not answering any questions.
Bondi's handling of the Epstein files was previously cited as a reason for her dismissal by Trump on April 2. Meanwhile, survivors of Epstein's abuse gathered outside the Capitol, holding posters featuring Trump's name from the released files and attempting to confront Bondi as she entered the interview room. Their presence underscored the ongoing demand for transparency and accountability in the Epstein case.
I'm not certain of the extent of his knowledge.
Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.