The Justice Department released 3.5 million Jeffrey Epstein files, sparking outrage over millions of withheld documents and inadequate redactions. The partial release reveals new connections between Epstein and powerful figures like Howard Lutnik, Richard Branson, and Elon Musk, while raising questions about the DOJ's transparency and potential shielding of elites, including claims against Donald Trump.
The Justice Department has released 3.5 million files related to deceased financier and pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, marking a partial and belated response to a congressional mandate for full disclosure by December 2025. This release has drawn strong criticism from lawmakers, including Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, who point out that the DOJ identified 6 million 'potentially responsive' files, raising concerns about why millions remain unreleased and if powerful individuals are being shielded. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who announced the release, cited the presence of child sexual abuse material and the need to protect victims as reasons for withholding tens of thousands of additional documents. However, many released files still contained sensitive victim information, leading some victims to condemn the DOJ's actions as a 'betrayal.' The announcement by Blanche, a former lawyer for Donald Trump, instead of Attorney General Pam Bondi, highlights internal tensions and ongoing scrutiny regarding the handling of the Epstein controversy. Blanche denied protecting Trump or White House oversight, despite Trump's initial opposition to the files' release and later claims of pushing for 'maximum transparency.' The trove includes 2,000 videos and 180,000 images, some depicting Epstein's underage victims, and numerous uncorroborated tips to authorities, several alleging abuse by Donald Trump. Initial analysis of the documents has already revealed new connections: Howard Lutnik, now Trump's commerce secretary, appears to have visited Epstein's island in 2012 despite previously claiming to cut ties in 2005. Emails also show Richard Branson inviting Epstein to 'bring your harem!' in 2013, and Elon Musk expressing enthusiasm in 2012 about visiting Epstein's island for a 'wildest party,' despite both men later downplaying their connections. The incomplete, unindexed release fuels public distrust and reinforces the perception of an elite impervious to law and consequences, raising further questions about the extent of powerful individuals' involvement with Epstein and the government's transparency.
