Mix-Up in Epstein Files Release Sparks Outrage

Pam Bondi, the Attorney General, recently faced a wave of criticism after the Department of Justice (DOJ) released a list of names tied to the Jeffrey Epstein case. The list, which included both the expected and the unexpected, sparked accusations of a cover-up. Among the names were well-known figures like President Donald Trump, Les Wexner, and Steve Bannon. But the list also included some surprising entries, like former presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, actor George Clooney, and lawmakers Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna. The inclusion of these names, along with some deceased celebrities, raised eyebrows and questions. Critics argue that the DOJ's approach dilutes the impact of the evidence. By mixing names of people mentioned in passing with those who were actively involved, the DOJ is making it harder to see the real connections. This strategy, some say, is a classic way to protect the powerful.Rep. Ro Khanna was one of the loudest critics. He accused the DOJ of "muddying the waters" and called for the full release of the files. He pointed out the absurdity of listing Janis Joplin, who died when Epstein was a teenager, alongside convicted predator Larry Nassar. The DOJ's handling of the Epstein files has been under scrutiny for some time. Earlier this month, the department had to take down thousands of documents that may have identified victims. This error, along with the delayed release of the files, has fueled suspicions of a cover-up. Bondi has defended the DOJ's actions, but the criticism continues to mount. The release of the files, which occurred more than a month after the legal deadline, has only added to the controversy. The documents include uncorroborated allegations against Trump, as well as emails linking him to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.