Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• US Justice Department temporarily removes then restores Trump photo from Epstein files release — The US Justice Department removed a photograph containing images of Donald Trump from the public Epstein investigative files on Saturday, citing potential victim exposure concerns flagged by federal prosecutors in New York. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the removal was precautionary and unrelated to Trump. After review, the department determined no Epstein victims were depicted and restored the image on Sunday without redaction. Democrats accused the administration of political interference, while the department defended the action as necessary to protect victims during ongoing document review.
• Deputy Attorney General Blanche provides inconsistent explanations for removal of Trump photographs from Epstein files — When NBC's Kristen Welker pressed Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche about photographs showing Trump in Epstein-related materials that were removed from the DOJ website, Blanche's explanations shifted repeatedly. He insisted the removal had nothing to do with Trump while conceding that no victim had been identified in the images that prompted their takedown, creating an apparent contradiction in his account.

Supporting reports

• Deputy Attorney General Blanche provides inconsistent explanations for removal of Trump photographs from Epstein files — When NBC's Kristen Welker pressed Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche about photographs showing Trump in Epstein-related materials that were removed from the DOJ website, Blanche's explanations shifted repeatedly. He insisted the removal had nothing to do with Trump while conceding that no victim had been identified in the images that prompted their takedown, creating an apparent contradiction in his account.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration resists Epstein file disclosures despite campaign promise — President Trump signed legislation mandating Epstein file disclosures after months of hesitation, despite having promised on the campaign trail to release the files. The White House and DOJ repeatedly delayed and obstructed the release, with the DOJ claiming in July that no further disclosure was warranted. Trump's name appeared multiple times in the withheld files, according to reporting. The administration's resistance to transparency, combined with the incomplete release, suggests deliberate obstruction of accountability.

Supporting reports

• Democrats release new Epstein photos ahead of DoJ transparency deadline — Democrats on the House oversight committee released a new batch of photos from Jeffrey Epstein's estate as the Department of Justice faces a deadline to release its files related to Epstein under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The images, which include undated photos of prominent figures and text from Vladimir Nabokov’s novel "Lolita" written on a woman's body, aim to maintain pressure on the Trump administration. The Justice Department has less than 48 hours to comply with the law, which was signed by Trump after bipartisan support ensured its passage.
• Ghislaine Maxwell files habeas petition to vacate conviction — Ghislaine Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for sex-trafficking crimes, filed a habeas petition in federal court to vacate her conviction, citing "substantial new evidence" from various sources that she claims supports her argument of an unfair trial. The petition alleges that exculpatory information was withheld and false testimony was presented during her trial. This filing is Maxwell's latest attempt to overturn her conviction following several unsuccessful appeals since her 2021 conviction.
• Trump administration faces Epstein Files Transparency Act deadline with incomplete DOJ redaction process — The Trump administration's Department of Justice faces a less-than-48-hour deadline to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law on November 19, 2025. Internal sources report that DOJ attorneys have been processing over 1,000 documents each since Thanksgiving with only four pages of redaction guidance, raising concerns about over-redaction, errors, and potential exposure of sensitive information. Legal experts warn the rushed review could compromise the transparency mandate.
• Senate Majority Leader Schumer called DOJ Epstein release a cover-up — Senator Chuck Schumer stated that the Trump administration violated the law by releasing only partial Epstein files instead of all documents within the 30-day statutory window. He accused the DOJ, Trump, and Bondi of hiding the truth and covering up Trump's past, and announced Senate Democrats are working with victim attorneys and legal experts to assess what documents are being withheld.
• DOJ released partial Epstein files in violation of federal law — Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche released only a portion of the Epstein documents on the statutory deadline, with heavy redactions, violating federal law requiring full release with minimal redactions to protect victim identity only. The law mandated all documents be released within 30 days of enactment; DOJ interpreted this as permission to release documents over several weeks. Senate Democrats and House Judiciary members announced they are examining legal options to compel full compliance.
• DOJ released Epstein files with initial photo removal and restoration — The Department of Justice met a court-ordered deadline on December 19 to release Jeffrey Epstein investigation materials, including a searchable photo database. Officials initially removed a widely-circulated photograph showing Trump with Epstein from the database; after immediate public criticism, the department restored the photo on Saturday, attributing the removal to technical issues. Documents were released with heavy redactions that victim advocates said protected prominent names inconsistently.
• DOJ Releases Redacted Epstein Files, Restores Trump Photo — The Department of Justice released heavily redacted materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, meeting a court-ordered deadline. Initially, a photograph of Trump with Epstein was removed from the database but was restored after public criticism, with officials citing technical issues. The redactions have been criticized for inconsistently protecting prominent names, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
• Department of Justice releases heavily redacted Epstein files under court-ordered deadline — The Department of Justice released a large tranche of documents from its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, December 19, 2025, in compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act signed by President Trump on November 19. The release included photographs and investigative materials dating back to 2006, though significant portions were redacted, including identifying details of over 1,200 victims and family members. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledged the redactions and indicated additional documents would be released on a rolling basis. Congressional Democrats and some Republicans criticized the release as failing to fully comply with the law's requirement to disclose all unclassified materials.
• Department of Justice releases partial Epstein files in violation of congressional mandate — The Department of Justice released several hundred thousand documents related to Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, but Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the release would not include the full set of files held by DOJ, contrary to the Epstein Files Transparency Act signed into law on November 19, 2025. The law required release of all unclassified materials within 30 days. Congressional Democrats and legal experts immediately threatened legal action, accusing the administration of violating federal law and obstructing transparency.
• DOJ partially releases Epstein investigative files, missing statutory deadline — The Department of Justice released investigative documents on Jeffrey Epstein on December 19, 2025, under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandated full disclosure by that date. However, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the release was incomplete and stated additional documents would be released over subsequent weeks. Lawyers representing Epstein survivors condemned the partial release, arguing the DOJ had "dragged its feet" for 18 years and repeatedly failed victims, while some survivors expressed mixed emotions—validation that obstruction was now public, but also devastation over the incomplete accounting.
• House Democrats release Epstein estate photos ahead of DOJ transparency deadline — House Oversight Committee Democrats released a batch of photographs from Jeffrey Epstein's estate on Thursday, including images with Lolita passages written on women's bodies, photos of Bill Gates, Noam Chomsky, and other public figures. The release occurs as the Trump administration faces a 48-hour deadline under the Epstein Files Transparency Act to release DOJ files. The administration had initially refused to release additional files despite campaign promises, then reversed course when bipartisan support became evident.
• Justice Department misses congressionally mandated deadline for Epstein files release — The Trump administration's Justice Department failed to meet the December 19, 2025 deadline mandated by the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act to release all investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Although some files were disclosed by the deadline, subsequent releases represented only a fraction of the estimated 2+ million documents in the department's possession. Victims' advocates and the act's co-sponsors have called for a special master to oversee compliance; the Justice Department opposed the request in court filings.
• Trump administration fails to fully release Epstein files by congressional deadline — The Trump administration released only partial Epstein investigative documents on Friday, falling short of the congressionally mandated full release required by the Epstein Files Transparency Act deadline of December 19. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Representative Ro Khanna criticized the incomplete release, with Khanna calling for impeachment proceedings against Attorney General Pam Bondi. The administration cited the need for additional victim-protection redactions, while Democrats argued the law required written explanation for withheld documents within 15 days.
• Trump DOJ fails to comply with Congressional deadline for Epstein Files Transparency Act — The Trump Department of Justice missed the December 19, 2025 statutory deadline mandated by Congress's Epstein Files Transparency Act to disclose all investigative files on Jeffrey Epstein. One month after the deadline, DOJ has released only approximately 12,285 documents (125,575 pages) while acknowledging over 2 million additional documents remain under review. Congressmen Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie requested a federal judge appoint a special master to compel compliance; DOJ opposed the request.
• Trump justice department releases limited, heavily redacted Epstein files in apparent violation of transparency law — The Trump justice department released a limited, heavily redacted trove of Jeffrey Epstein investigative files on Friday, December 19, falling short of the Epstein Files Transparency Act's requirement for near-complete disclosure by that date. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the department would release documents in tranches over weeks rather than all at once. Subsequently, at least 16 files disappeared from the department's public webpage without explanation, including an image containing a photograph of Trump with Epstein. Lawmakers from both parties condemned the release as non-compliant with law.
• Trump's DOJ missed December 19 deadline for releasing Epstein files under EFTA — Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA) in 2025, which Trump signed into law, mandating the Department of Justice release investigative files by December 19, 2025. The deadline passed with the DOJ releasing only a fraction of required disclosures. Legal experts including Mitchell Garabedian, Spencer Kuvin, and Neama Rahmani told the Guardian that enforcement mechanisms are weak, the special master route has failed, and future options include court intervention, FOIA litigation, and congressional oversight, though complications abound given the DOJ itself is the target of enforcement.
• Department of Justice released only a fraction of Epstein files required by law on December 19, 2025 — On December 19, 2025, the deadline established by the Epstein Files Transparency Act, the Department of Justice released only a partial set of materials despite the law's requirement to release all unclassified records. Missing from the release were FBI interviews with survivors and internal Justice Department memos about charging decisions. The release was heavily redacted, with entire pages blacked out, and focused disproportionately on former President Bill Clinton rather than other named individuals.
• Trump administration fails to meet December 19 deadline for releasing Epstein files — The Trump administration failed to meet the legal deadline of December 19 established by Congress for releasing the Epstein files. The failure to comply with the congressional mandate represented a violation of the law and an assertion of executive power over legislative authority.
• Trump Justice Department fails to comply with Epstein Files Transparency Act deadline — The Trump Justice Department, led by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, announced it will not release all unclassified Epstein-related records by the statutory 30-day deadline mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Instead, officials stated they will release "several hundred thousand" documents today with additional materials possibly arriving weeks or months later. The statute explicitly requires all unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and their trafficking operation be made publicly available in searchable and downloadable form within 30 days of enactment. The staggered disclosure approach violates the law's clear mandate.

Supporting reports

• Attorney General Bondi refuses to release Jack Smith classified documents report — Attorney General Pam Bondi has refused to release the classified documents portion of Special Counsel Jack Smith's report, despite dropping charges against the co-defendants whose ongoing proceedings had been cited as justification for withholding it. The House Judiciary Committee Democrats argue Bondi now has "zero legal basis" for continued withholding, particularly as Smith is scheduled to testify about the investigation's contents.
• House Democrats request release of Jack Smith classified documents report from Judge Cannon — House Judiciary Committee Democrats filed a motion Friday asking Judge Aileen Cannon to release the classified documents portion of Special Counsel Jack Smith's report on the Trump case. The motion argues that Cannon's prior rationale for withholding the report—ongoing proceedings against co-defendants—no longer applies after Attorney General Pam Bondi dropped charges against those defendants. Democrats also sent Bondi a letter pressing for release, noting Smith is scheduled to testify about the investigation Wednesday.

Supporting reports

• Attorney General Bondi refuses to release Jack Smith classified documents report — Attorney General Pam Bondi has refused to release the classified documents portion of Special Counsel Jack Smith's report, despite dropping charges against the co-defendants whose ongoing proceedings had been cited as justification for withholding it. The House Judiciary Committee Democrats argue Bondi now has "zero legal basis" for continued withholding, particularly as Smith is scheduled to testify about the investigation's contents.

Supporting reports

• Trump reversed position and called for House Republicans to vote for Epstein file release — President Trump posted on Sunday night, November 16, that he wants House Republicans to "vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," reversing his prior opposition. By Monday afternoon, November 17, Trump stated he would sign the bill if it reached his desk. The reversal followed sustained public pressure and constituent calls to representatives.
• Trump reversed course on Epstein files, calling release a "Democrat Hoax" — On Truth Social, Trump reversed his earlier position and said House Republicans "should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," but then characterized the effort as a "Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics" designed to deflect from Republican success. The reversal came after initially opposing the release.
• Trump reverses opposition to Epstein files release — President Trump reversed his months-long opposition to the Epstein Files Transparency Act after it became clear the bill would pass the Republican-controlled House with substantial GOP support. Trump initially dismissed the issue as a "Democrat hoax" and "cover up" narrative, but shifted to public indifference, stating "I DON'T CARE!" on social media and later telling reporters he would allow the files' release while urging the media not to focus on the scandal.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files — President Trump reversed his previous opposition to releasing the Epstein files on November 17, 2025, calling for their disclosure and labeling the controversy a "Democrat hoax." Trump's reversal followed failed White House efforts to persuade Republican members Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace to withdraw from a discharge petition. Trump told reporters he would sign the bill if it reached his desk, though he retains veto power.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files after failed pressure campaign on House Republicans — President Trump spent the previous week pressuring House Republicans, including Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace, to oppose the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. When the measure appeared likely to pass despite his efforts, Trump reversed course and publicly called for Republicans to support the release on Sunday evening via Truth Social. The reversal represents a rare instance of Trump being unable to control his MAGA base and being forced to accede to grassroots pressure rather than lead it.
• Trump reversed position on Epstein files release after House discharge petition neared completion — After initially fighting the release of FBI-collected Epstein investigation files, Trump abruptly reversed course on the evening of November 17, posting that House Republicans should vote to release the files "because we have nothing to hide." This reversal came as a discharge petition neared the threshold to force a House vote, with reports indicating as many as 100 House Republicans prepared to support release despite Trump's earlier opposition. Trump later told reporters he would sign the measure if it reached his desk.
• Trump reverses position and endorses Epstein records release bill — After five months of resisting the release of justice department files on Jeffrey Epstein, President Trump reversed course and called on Republican lawmakers to support the House bill forcing disclosure. Trump's initial opposition had prompted bipartisan pushback from Representatives Massie and Khanna. His reversal came hours before the House vote and secured the bill's passage with overwhelming bipartisan support.
• Trump Calls for Release of Epstein Files — President Donald J. Trump reversed his previous opposition and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, "we have nothing to hide." This shift came after significant pressure from House Republicans and public demand for transparency regarding the files. The House is set to vote on a discharge petition that would require the Justice Department to release the files.
• Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, into law on November 19, 2025 — President Donald J. Trump reversed his position and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, “we have nothing to hide.” This shift came after significant pressure from within the party, as many House Republicans indicated they would support the release, despite Trump's previous opposition. The House is set to vote on a bill requiring the Justice Department to release these files.
• Trump signs Epstein Files Transparency Act into law — On November 19, 2025, President Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress had passed the same day. The law required the Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents and records relating to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, immunity deals, internal DOJ communications about charging decisions, and documentation of Epstein's detention and death within 30 days, with redactions permitted only for classified information, victim privacy, child sexual abuse material, active investigations, and properly classified national defense or foreign policy information. All other redactions required written justification in the Federal Register and to Congress.
• Trump signed Epstein files release bill into law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law after initially opposing its passage for months and later claiming indifference to the outcome. Trump announced the signing on social media in the evening of November 19, 2025.
• Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law. — In a rant on Truth Social, Trump announced that he signed the bill forcing the Justice Department to release the Epstein files into law. It's unclear how many of the files will be released by the DOJ, considering the legislation notes that the attorney general can withhold or redact any information that names victims or could interfere with a current federal investigation.
• Trump signs bill directing DOJ to release Epstein investigation files — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law on November 20, 2025. The law requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified Epstein-related records, including flight logs, witness interview transcripts, immunity deals, non-prosecution agreements, internal DOJ communications, and records related to Epstein's death in federal custody. The DOJ has 30 days from enactment (deadline December 20, 2025) to release the documents, with an exception for records tied to "ongoing investigations."
• Trump signs bill to release Epstein files — President Trump signed legislation on November 20, 2025, directing the Department of Justice to release files from the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill permits redaction of victims' identifying information but bars officials from withholding documents due to "embarrassment, reputational harm or political sensitivity." Trump reversed his earlier position opposing release after facing bipartisan pressure and indications the House would pass the measure. The legislation passed swiftly through both chambers after Trump signaled approval.
• Epstein Files Transparency Act Signed into Law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation requiring the Department of Justice to release government files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill passed the House overwhelmingly and the Senate unanimously after a discharge petition overcame Speaker Mike Johnson's initial opposition. Congressman Ro Khanna, a key Democratic sponsor, warned Trump administration officials that failure to comply with the release requirement could result in prosecution for contempt of Congress or criminal violations.
• Trump signs law mandating DOJ release of Epstein documents within 30 days — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, establishing a 30-day deadline for the Department of Justice to release unclassified materials related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The bill passed the House with 427 votes and the Senate by unanimous consent, marking rare bipartisan support. Trump had initially opposed the bill before reversing course amid party rebellion. Republican senators immediately warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using exemptions to withhold or redact materials.
• Trump signals willingness to meet with NYC mayor-elect Mamdani — President Trump announced he had signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein's investigation. This decision came after the House and Senate passed the bill, despite Trump's earlier attempts to block its release. The announcement was made amidst Trump's ongoing efforts to shift focus to his administration's achievements.
• Trump posted demand for House Republicans to vote to release Epstein files — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, mandating the release of Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, requires the disclosure of unclassified materials in a searchable format, with exemptions for active investigations and materials depicting minors. Republican senators have warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using these exemptions to withhold information, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
• House Republicans reversed positions on Epstein file release following Trump's post — President Trump signed legislation passed by Congress requiring the Department of Justice to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law permits redactions only to protect victim identities but bars redactions based on embarrassment or political sensitivity. However, experts and transparency advocates warn that DOJ officials could exploit a provision allowing withholding of materials connected to ongoing law-enforcement investigations—particularly a newly announced Trump-directed investigation into Bill Clinton and other political opponents with Epstein associations—to block or delay full disclosure.
• — Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani "would like to meet with us" and that "we'll work something out." Mamdani confirmed his team had reached out to the White House to discuss federal policies affecting New York, particularly the affordability crisis. The potential meeting follows Trump's campaign attacks on Mamdani, including calling him a "communist lunatic," threatening to pull federal funding from NYC if he won, and suggesting stripping Mamdani of his citizenship. Mamdani will be sworn in as NYC's 111th mayor on January 1.
• — Trump posted on social media that House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, characterizing the matter as a "Democrat Hoax" and stating "we have nothing to hide." Trump claimed the files would deflect from Republican achievements and that Democrats would have released them before the election if they had anything. He also stated that some Republicans were being "used" and urged focus on Republican accomplishments instead.
• — Multiple House Republicans, including Rep. Troy Nehls and Republican Senate candidates Derek Dooley and Rep. Mike Collins, reversed their previous positions opposing the release of Epstein files immediately after Trump's social media post demanding the release. Nehls had days earlier called the release an "Epstein hoax" designed by Democrats to distract from Trump's administration but announced he would now vote to release the files, making unanimous release likely.

Supporting reports

• Trump ordered AG Pam Bondi to reopen Epstein investigation — Trump ordered Attorney General Pam Bondi to open a new investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein case after she had announced months earlier that she was closing it. Rep. Thomas Massie suggested this was a "smokescreen" to prevent release of Epstein files, noting that ongoing investigations can be used to withhold documents from public release.
• Attorney General Bondi opened investigations into Democrats' Epstein connections — Attorney General Pam Bondi opened investigations into several Democrats' connections to Jeffrey Epstein after Trump pressed her to do so, according to the article. Rep. Thomas Massie warned this action might be "a big smokescreen" to classify documents under "ongoing investigations," potentially blocking the release of Epstein files by claiming they are part of active investigations.
• Deputy AG Todd Blanche announced new Epstein investigation ordered by Trump — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the DOJ will investigate whether anyone involved in the Epstein case has not been held accountable. The investigation was ordered by Trump following his social media posts about releasing Epstein files and characterizing the matter as a Democratic hoax.
• Trump ordered DOJ investigation of Democrats connected to Epstein to block document release — Trump previously ordered the Department of Justice to investigate Democrats connected to Epstein. He is now using this self-created investigation as justification for refusing to release Epstein files to Congress, claiming an "ongoing investigation" prevents disclosure. This represents a deliberate strategy to sabotage transparency and then cite his own sabotage as grounds for secrecy.
• Pam Bondi opens investigation into Democratic ties to Epstein at Trump's request — U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi opened an investigation into ties between Democrats and Jeffrey Epstein at President Trump's request. The action follows accusations that Bondi has undermined the Department of Justice's independence from the White House. The investigation occurs as the DOJ is now legally required to release Epstein-related files under the newly signed transparency law.
• Trump administration appoints prosecutor to investigate Clinton and Epstein-linked political opponents — At Trump's direction, Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed a prosecutor in New York to investigate Bill Clinton, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, and other political opponents with past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Neither Clinton nor Hoffman has been accused of misconduct; both have publicly expressed regret for their Epstein associations. The investigation creates a legal basis under the Epstein documents law to withhold materials, potentially blocking transparency while targeting political rivals.
• Trump directs DOJ investigation into Epstein-linked figures — President Trump instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi on November 15, 2025, to open a Justice Department investigation into links between Jeffrey Epstein and former President Bill Clinton, economist Larry Summers, venture capitalist Reid Hoffman, and JPMorgan Chase. The investigation could enable the DOJ to withhold documents from any eventual Epstein file release on grounds that disclosure would prejudice the investigation.

Supporting reports

• Democrats release emails suggesting Trump knew about Epstein's criminal conduct — On November 12, 2025, Democratic lawmakers released three email exchanges from Jeffrey Epstein's correspondence that suggest President Trump had knowledge of Epstein's sex-trafficking crimes. In a 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein wrote that Trump "spent hours" at his house with one of his victims and had "never once been mentioned" in connection with his crimes. A separate 2019 email to journalist Michael Wolff states Epstein knew Trump was aware of "the girls" because Trump had asked Maxwell to stop. A third email from 2015 discusses using Trump's denials as "political currency."
• House Oversight Democrats released Epstein estate emails showing Trump connection to trafficking victims — On November 12, 2025, House Oversight Committee Democrats released 23,000 documents subpoenaed from the Epstein Estate, including emails in which Epstein references Trump as "the dog that hasn't barked" and notes a trafficking victim "spent hours at my house with him." Additional emails from 2015 show Epstein and author Michael Wolff strategizing how to use knowledge of Trump's relationship with trafficking victims as leverage to create political "debt" if Trump won the presidency. The emails are now part of the congressional record.
• House Oversight Committee releases 20,000+ Epstein documents from estate — The House Oversight Committee released more than 20,000 documents obtained from Jeffrey Epstein's estate, including an email in which Epstein alleged that Trump "knew about the girls." The release reignited scrutiny of Trump's past ties to Epstein and intensified calls for full disclosure of justice department and FBI records. The White House subsequently accused Democrats of selectively leaking the materials to smear the president.
• House Committee on Oversight released additional 20,000 pages of Epstein estate documents — After Democrats released three emails from the Epstein estate, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released an additional 20,000 pages of documents from the same cache. The documents included emails in which Epstein offered tips on stories about Trump and young women to a New York Times financial reporter, offered photographs of "donald and girls in bikinis," and referenced Trump's payment of hush money to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. No story based on this information appeared in the New York Times before or after the 2016 presidential election.
• House Democrats released Epstein estate emails implicating Trump in knowledge of sexual misconduct — On November 12, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released three emails from the Epstein estate cache. The emails included correspondence in which Epstein referenced Trump as "the dog that hasn't barked" in his criminal investigation, stated Trump "knew about the girls," and discussed leverage Epstein held over Trump regarding his presence at Epstein's properties. The release followed the end of a 54-day government shutdown and preceded the swearing-in of Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva, whose vote would complete a discharge petition to force a House vote on releasing FBI files related to the Epstein investigation.
• House Oversight Committee releases Epstein emails contradicting Trump's denials of knowledge — On November 12, 2025, the House Oversight Committee released emails obtained from Jeffrey Epstein's estate that directly contradict President Trump's repeated public denials of knowledge about Epstein's crimes. A January 31, 2019 email shows Epstein telling journalist Michael Wolff that Trump "of course… knew about the girls." An April 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell states Trump had spent "hours at my house" with victim Virginia Giuffre, implying Trump's knowledge of Epstein's criminal activity. The White House disputed the release, claiming Democrats created a "fake narrative" through selective redaction.
• Democrats released Epstein emails suggesting Trump knew about abuse — Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released emails on November 12 written by Jeffrey Epstein that suggested he believed Trump may have known about his abuse. Among the emails was one where Epstein noted that Trump had "spent hours at my house" with one of his victims, and in a 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein wrote, "I want you to realize that that dog that hasn't barked is Trump."
• Democrats release emails from Epstein files — Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released a series of emails from the Epstein files, which suggest that Donald Trump may have been aware of Epstein's underage sex-trafficking activities. This release has intensified the political pressure on Trump, as it coincides with efforts to force a congressional vote on the full release of the files. The emails have fueled speculation and controversy, potentially affecting Trump's support among his political base.
• Public disclosure of 20,000+ pages of Jeffrey Epstein case files — More than 20,000 pages of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were publicly released. Democratic House oversight committee members released three emails suggesting Donald Trump may have known more about Epstein's crimes than publicly acknowledged. Republican representatives subsequently released a larger cache of files. The disclosure reignited scrutiny of Epstein's relationships with powerful figures and raised questions about Trump's knowledge of Epstein's conduct toward victims.
• House Democrats release Epstein documents showing Trump's involvement in schemes — The House Oversight Committee, controlled by Democrats, released documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate containing emails and communications that detail Trump's connections to Epstein and his activities. The documents include Epstein's own characterizations of Trump's business practices, references to Trump's visits to Epstein properties, and Epstein's communications with Russian officials about Trump. The release occurred after Republicans had long demanded the files be made public, expecting them to implicate Democratic figures instead.
• House Oversight released Epstein emails showing Trump's name in network — House Oversight released Epstein's emails as part of the congressional record, including April 2011 correspondence to Ghislaine Maxwell referencing Trump's visits and December 2015 emails strategizing how to leverage Trump's presence to create political "debt." The release occurred as part of transparency efforts following the discharge petition. The emails document Epstein's own characterization of Trump's involvement in his network.
• House Oversight Committee released Epstein estate documents showing elite connections — The House Oversight Committee released documents from the Epstein estate on November 12 showing a chummy friendship between Epstein and political, academic, and economic leaders who sought to retain access to his money, information, and connections even after he pleaded guilty to procuring a minor for prostitution.
• House Oversight Committee releases Epstein estate documents showing elite connections — The House Oversight Committee released documents from the Epstein estate on November 12 showing a chummy friendship between Epstein and political, academic, and economic leaders who sought to retain access to Epstein's money, information, and connections even after he pleaded guilty to procuring a minor for prostitution. The documents revealed connections between Epstein and prominent figures including Steve Bannon.
• Newly released Epstein documents reveal texting contact with House member during 2019 Cohen hearing — Newly released documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate show the convicted sex offender was texting with a member of Congress during a February 2019 House oversight hearing featuring Michael Cohen's testimony against Donald Trump. Analysis by the Washington Post suggests the lawmaker was Stacey Plaskett, US Virgin Islands' Democratic delegate. Message timestamps and hearing video indicate Epstein may have influenced Plaskett's questioning of Cohen, including prompting her to ask about Trump executive assistant Rhona Graff. The documents were provided to Congress this week.

Supporting reports

• DOJ fired career prosecutors investigating Trump — The Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, fired dozens of career prosecutors who worked on cases investigating the former president. Bondi refused to answer questions about whether she was firing career professionals specifically because they worked on January 6 investigations or other Trump-related cases.
• Democratic senators denied access to ICE detention facility in Illinois — U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth visited an ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois on Friday, requesting a tour and attempting to deliver supplies to protesters, but were barred from entering. Both senators invoked their congressional oversight authority and expressed concern about undisclosed conditions inside the facility. Durbin stated he had never experienced such "stonewalling" from a presidential administration in his tenure.

Supporting reports

• Pam Bondi Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on DOJ independence and Trump deployments — US Attorney General Pam Bondi testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on October 7, 2025, amid Democratic demands for answers on her involvement in prosecuting Trump's political opponents, national guard deployments to Democratic-led cities, and handling of Epstein files. Bondi declined to discuss controversial decisions, personally attacked senators, and invoked the government shutdown. Democrats expressed alarm that the DOJ had been politicized; Bondi defended the Comey indictment as approved by a "liberal grand jury" and dismissed questions about dropped investigations and Epstein documents.
• Pam Bondi Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on DOJ weaponization and enforcement actions — Attorney General Pam Bondi testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday amid Democratic accusations that the Trump administration weaponized the DOJ to investigate political adversaries. Democrats criticized her tenure, citing enforcement in Democratic-led cities, mishandling of the Epstein investigation, and inquiries into Trump's political enemies. Bondi defended the administration, refused to discuss conversations with Trump regarding James Comey's indictment, and sparred with senators over Epstein documents and Operation Arctic Frost.
• Pam Bondi Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing — Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee for a contentious hearing. She refused to answer numerous questions about her handling of investigations into Trump, the Epstein case, border czar Tom Homan's alleged $50,000 cash receipt, and her prior work as a foreign agent for Qatar. Bondi made personal attacks against Democratic senators and became defensive when questioned about Epstein. She also declined to answer questions about firing career prosecutors, approving gifts to Trump from foreign governments, and her role in flagging Trump's name in Epstein documents.
• Former DOJ officials warn against politicization of the Department of Justice — On October 6, 2025, 282 former Department of Justice officials issued a letter expressing concern that the Trump administration is undermining the integrity of the DOJ by violating court orders and using law enforcement to target political enemies. They warned that these actions threaten national security and the rule of law.
• 282 former Department of Justice career officials issued letter warning Trump administration is destroying the DOJ — 282 former Department of Justice career officials—including prosecutors, FBI agents, intelligence analysts, civil rights attorneys, and immigration judges—wrote a letter warning that Trump and his appointees are destroying the Department of Justice. The letter called out the administration's violation of court orders, destruction of anti-corruption units, endangering national security, and using law enforcement to persecute those Trump sees as enemies. The officials stated, "We believe it's our duty to sound the alarm."
• Pam Bondi questioned on Epstein documents and Trump references during Senate confirmation hearing — U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi was grilled during Senate hearings on whether she agreed to "flag records related to President Trump" in government-held Epstein files. Bondi refused to discuss the matter, responding combatively to Senator Dick Durbin's questions. A July Wall Street Journal report had claimed that "multiple" references to Trump were found in Epstein-related documents. Durbin warned that Bondi would "eventually have to answer for your conduct."
• Trump administration fails to fulfill promise to release all Epstein documentation — The Trump administration has spent much of his second presidency attempting to contain a scandal surrounding its failure to fulfill a promise to release all federal government documentation related to Jeffrey Epstein. The administration's handling of Epstein files, including the selective flagging of records mentioning Trump and delays in release, has drawn criticism from Congress and raised questions about whether the Justice Department is being used to shield the president.
• Epstein client list withheld from Congress — Attorney General Pam Bondi has not produced Epstein client list files despite stating in February that the list was "sitting on my desk right now for review." Eight months later, the files remain unreleased. A credible whistleblower informed Senator Durbin's office that FBI agents were directed to flag any records in which President Trump was mentioned, suggesting selective handling of sensitive documents.
• Attorney General Bondi refused to answer Epstein-related questions — While testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to say who ordered that records in the Epstein files containing Trump's name be flagged, or whether the FBI has incriminating photographs of Trump with half-naked young women. She claimed an Epstein client list doesn't exist despite saying publicly back in February that it was "sitting on my desk right now." Bondi also said she didn't know whether a recording of border czar Tom Homan taking a $50,000 bribe from undercover federal agents exists and refused to say whether Homan kept the cash. She also wouldn't answer a question about whether she was directed by the White House to prosecute former FBI Director James Comey.
• Attorney General Bondi refuses to answer Senate Judiciary Committee questions — Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee and declined to answer substantive questions about ethics approvals, alleged gifts to Trump, bribery allegations involving border officials, prosecutorial decisions, and military actions. When asked by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse whether the FBI found photographs of Trump with young women in Jeffrey Epstein's files, Bondi refused to answer and instead accused the senator of attempting to slander Trump.

Supporting reports

• FBI officials directed to redact Trump's name from Epstein files in response to FOIA requests — Bloomberg reported that senior officials at the FBI's Record/Information Dissemination Section were instructed to redact Trump's name from Epstein investigation documents in preparation for public release under FOIA. Michael Seidel, the section chief who had worked at the FBI for 14 years, vocally opposed the directive and was subsequently told he could either retire or be fired; he chose retirement. The redactions were applied despite Trump being identified in numerous documents during the federal investigation launched in 2006.

Supporting reports

• Freedom of the Press Foundation v. U.S. Department of Justice, complaint filed (D.D.C. 1:25-cv-02432) — Freedom of the Press Foundation filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on July 28, 2025, alleging that the Department of Justice failed to respond to a FOIA request submitted on May 15, 2025, seeking a memorandum from Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the Trump Administration's acceptance of a $400 million aircraft from Qatar. FPF seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to compel DOJ compliance with FOIA's statutory response deadlines.
• Freedom of the Press Foundation sues DOJ over Qatar jet gift legal memo — The Freedom of the Press Foundation, represented by American Oversight, filed a federal FOIA lawsuit in Washington DC district court against the Department of Justice for refusing to release a legal memorandum signed by Attorney General Pam Bondi in May 2025 that cleared Trump's acceptance of a $400 million luxury Boeing 747-8 aircraft from Qatar's government. The DOJ granted expedited processing but estimated over 600 days to fulfill the request, with no documents released after more than two months. The memo's contents and the gift itself have drawn criticism from Republican senators and Democratic lawmakers over constitutional emoluments concerns and national security risks.

Supporting reports

• DOJ and FBI jointly decide to withhold further Epstein files from public release — US Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel jointly concluded a systematic review of Jeffrey Epstein materials and decided not to release further information, including a purported "client list." The memo stated no credible evidence of blackmail or basis for investigation of uncharged third parties was found. The decision triggered backlash from MAGA hardliners, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Steve Bannon, who questioned the Epstein autopsy conclusion and demanded disclosure.
• Justice Department announced no "incriminating client list" exists for Jeffrey Epstein; withheld evidence — The Department of Justice announced that deceased sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein did not maintain an "incriminating 'client list'" and stated it would not release additional evidence accumulated by investigators, including photographs and more than 10,000 videos. In February 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi had told Fox News that a list was "sitting on her desk awaiting review." The announcement reversed that position. MAGA influencers and media figures had previously demanded release of the files, claiming the Biden administration was covering up Democratic involvement. Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino, who had promoted the conspiracy theory, reportedly threatened to resign over Bondi's reversal.
• DOJ releases memo concluding no Epstein client list exists and death was suicide — The Department of Justice released a memo stating that a systematic review of evidence regarding convicted sex abuser Jeffrey Epstein found no incriminating client list and no credible evidence of blackmail. The memo concluded that Epstein died by suicide and that no further disclosure would be appropriate. This announcement contradicted years of claims by Trump and MAGA figures that Epstein was murdered to protect powerful men and that a client list existed naming prominent individuals involved in child trafficking.

Supporting reports

• DOJ and FBI jointly decide to withhold further Epstein files from public release — US Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel jointly concluded a systematic review of Jeffrey Epstein materials and decided not to release further information, including a purported "client list." The memo stated no credible evidence of blackmail or basis for investigation of uncharged third parties was found. The decision triggered backlash from MAGA hardliners, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Steve Bannon, who questioned the Epstein autopsy conclusion and demanded disclosure.
• Justice Department announced no "incriminating client list" exists for Jeffrey Epstein; withheld evidence — The Department of Justice announced that deceased sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein did not maintain an "incriminating 'client list'" and stated it would not release additional evidence accumulated by investigators, including photographs and more than 10,000 videos. In February 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi had told Fox News that a list was "sitting on her desk awaiting review." The announcement reversed that position. MAGA influencers and media figures had previously demanded release of the files, claiming the Biden administration was covering up Democratic involvement. Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino, who had promoted the conspiracy theory, reportedly threatened to resign over Bondi's reversal.

Supporting reports

• Trump dismissed Atlantic report on classified messaging breach — When asked about Jeffrey Goldberg's Atlantic article detailing the classified messaging breach, President Trump stated he knew nothing about the incident and dismissed The Atlantic as "a magazine that's going out of business." Trump declined to engage substantively with the security breach allegations.
• Secretary Hegseth denied texting war plans, contradicted by Signal messages — Asked by a reporter about the Signal group chat, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said "Nobody was texting war plans." This claim was directly contradicted by the chain of messages later published by The Atlantic, which included exact timings of strikes and information about planes and drones used—information that was highly classified at the time.
• Secretary of Defense Hegseth and administration officials denied classified information was shared in Signal chat — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and President Trump made public statements asserting that no classified information was shared in the Signal group chat discussing Yemen military strikes. Hegseth told reporters "Nobody was texting war plans." Gabbard testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee that "There was no classified material that was shared in that Signal group." Ratcliffe stated his communications "did not include classified information." Trump told reporters the information "wasn't classified." These statements were later contradicted when The Atlantic published screenshots of the messages showing precise attack details.
• The Atlantic published screenshots of classified Signal messages discussing Yemen military strikes — The Atlantic published screenshots of the Signal group chat messages in which senior administration officials discussed and planned military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The messages revealed that Secretary of Defense Hegseth had uploaded precise attack details including timing and targeting information before the operation commenced. The publication followed administration officials' repeated denials that classified information had been shared, and came after The Atlantic's reporters determined there was clear public interest in disclosing the information.

Supporting reports

• White House issues promotional release claiming economic and border security achievements — The White House published a promotional release titled "Monday Morning Wins: Call It the 'Trump Effect'" claiming achievements across manufacturing, border security, and small business regulation. The release states that Honda and Clarios announced U.S. manufacturing expansions, Apple announced a $500 billion investment creating 20,000 jobs, Eli Lilly announced $27 billion in U.S. manufacturing investment, illegal border crossings fell 94% year-over-year in February, and the Treasury suspended enforcement of beneficial ownership reporting requirements for U.S. citizens.
• White House issues fact sheet on Trump foreign policy and military initiatives — The White House published a fact sheet titled "President Trump is Leading with Peace Through Strength" detailing foreign policy actions and military initiatives. The document claims Trump secured release of 11 American hostages, began Ukraine peace negotiations, conducted military strikes against ISIS operatives, imposed sanctions on Iran and the ICC, reinstated the Mexico City Policy, redesignated Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, banned UNRWA funding, ordered embassies to fly only the American flag, cracked down on pro-Hamas foreign students, and initiated missile defense development. On military matters, it states recruitment numbers are at historic highs, Lt. Gen. Dan Caine was selected as Joint Chiefs chairman, transgender military service was barred, and military academy boards were dismissed.
• White House issues release claiming government efficiency achievements — The White House published a promotional release asserting that President Trump has undertaken efforts to downsize the federal government, including establishing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), ordering federal workers to return to offices five days per week, imposing hiring freezes, ending the Federal Executive Institute, terminating federal media contracts, halting USAID operations, ordering the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to cease operations, and directing reviews of federal grants and foreign aid. The release claims these actions have achieved "billions of dollars in savings."
• White House announces Elissa Slotkin as Democratic responder to Trump's Joint Address to Congress — The White House issued a release announcing that Senator Elissa Slotkin will deliver the Democratic response to President Trump's Joint Address to Congress on March 4, 2025. The release characterizes Slotkin's voting record on EV regulations and border security, stating she voted against repealing Biden's tailpipe emissions rule and against border security measures. The release cites research claiming EV mandates would cost jobs and notes that attempted border crossings in February were at historically low levels.
• White House announces First Lady's guest list for joint session address — The White House issued a release announcing that First Lady Melania Trump has invited twelve individuals and families as special guests to attend President Trump's address to a joint session of Congress. The guests include victims of crimes attributed to undocumented immigrants, a parent challenging school gender-transition policies, an athlete injured by a transgender competitor, a wrongfully imprisoned American released by Russia, and others described as affected by "the disaster wrought by the previous administration." The release frames each guest's story as illustrating Trump administration priorities.
• White House issues fact sheet on Trump administration policies affecting transgender youth and school sports — The White House published a fact sheet titled "President Trump is Protecting America's Children" on March 4, 2025, claiming the administration has taken action on multiple fronts. The document states the President made it official policy that there are only two sexes, ended what it characterizes as unfair practices in women's sports, and issued an executive order on "Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation." The fact sheet cites actions by health systems and school districts, including pauses or cessations of gender-affirming medical care for minors at hospitals in Illinois, Colorado, Washington D.C., and Virginia, and claims the Department of Education launched investigations into state athletic associations. It also states the administration banned COVID-19 vaccine mandates at federally funded schools.
• White House issues fact sheet claiming Trump administration economic actions and deregulation initiatives — The White House published a fact sheet asserting that President Trump's actions are "undoing Biden's economic damage" through deregulation, energy policy, and price relief directives. The document claims Trump directed agencies to lower costs, established the National Energy Dominance Council, postponed Biden-era appliance efficiency standards, implemented a 10-to-1 deregulation ratio, and eliminated electric vehicle mandates. It attributes crude oil price declines and claims of regulatory cost savings to these actions.
• White House issues fact sheet on energy policy actions — The White House issued a fact sheet titled "President Trump is Unleashing American Energy" on March 4, 2025, summarizing energy-related executive actions. The document claims Trump declared a National Energy Emergency, established a National Energy Dominance Council, rescinded Biden-era energy regulations, terminated the "Green New Scam," withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement, paused federal permitting for wind farms, reversed Alaska resource regulations, reopened 625 million acres for offshore drilling, scrapped greenhouse gas rules, and ended an LNG pause. The fact sheet characterizes these actions as unlocking energy potential and reducing costs.
• White House issues fact sheet on tariffs and manufacturing investment claims — The White House issued a fact sheet claiming President Trump has restored a 25% tariff on steel imports and elevated aluminum tariffs to 25%, and asserting that these actions have prompted major corporate investment announcements. The document states Trump has secured nearly $2 trillion in new U.S. investments, citing announcements from TSMC ($100 billion), Apple ($500 billion), a $500 billion AI infrastructure project, DAMAC Properties ($20 billion), Clarios ($6 billion), Eli Lilly ($27 billion), and Saudi Arabia ($600 billion over four years). The fact sheet attributes these announcements to Trump's tariff and trade policies.
• White House issues fact sheet claiming deregulation has saved families $2,100 each — The White House issued a fact sheet asserting that President Trump's deregulation efforts have saved Americans over $180 billion, or $2,100 per family of four, by halting proposed Biden-era regulations. The document claims the Biden Administration added $1.8 trillion in new regulatory costs over four years, with 72% attributed to EPA rules. It lists specific regulatory actions by Trump, including halting new regulations, implementing a 1-in-10-out regulatory budget, and abolishing DEI across agencies. The fact sheet details costly Biden regulations, particularly in vehicle emissions, water quality, and healthcare staffing.
• White House issues fact sheet on cabinet actions and policy announcements — The White House published a fact sheet titled "Cabinet Wins: Trump Administration Unleashing Golden Age" on March 7, 2025, cataloging cabinet department actions across energy, law enforcement, immigration, education, health, and other domains. The document lists announcements including Department of Energy LNG permit approvals, Department of Justice arrests, Department of State designations and visa restrictions, Department of Homeland Security border crossing statistics, and various regulatory and enforcement actions by other agencies. The fact sheet frames these as achievements and policy reversals from the Biden administration.
• White House issues fact sheet claiming manufacturing job gains under Trump — The White House issued a fact sheet on March 7, 2025, claiming that manufacturing employment rebounded under President Trump. The document states the country gained 10,000 manufacturing jobs in February 2025, with 8,900 new auto jobs, and cites S&P Global and ISM manufacturing surveys as evidence of sector expansion. The fact sheet attributes the rebound to Trump's trade policies and contrasts February gains against job losses reported during the final year of the Biden administration.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration shuts down national police misconduct database — The Trump administration has shut down the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD), which was created to track police misconduct and prevent officers with records of misconduct from moving undetected between agencies. The database, established by an executive order from President Biden in 2023, is no longer accessible, as confirmed by the US Department of Justice. The Trump administration rescinded Biden's executive order, citing concerns over "woke, anti-police concepts" and emphasizing law enforcement's ability to fight crime without such oversight.

Supporting reports

• Attorney General Bondi indicates Epstein files under review on her desk — On February 21, 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News that Epstein case files were "sitting on my desk right now to review" in response to a question about whether the DOJ would release a list of Epstein's clients. Bondi later suggested she was referring to case files rather than a client list, but the statement signaled potential control over the release of materials potentially implicating the president.
• Attorney General Bondi states Epstein client list is on her desk — In February 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News Channel that the Epstein client list was "sitting on my desk right now," suggesting the administration would release it. This statement was made to MAGA audiences who had been promised transparency on Epstein files as a key campaign commitment, with senators like Marsha Blackburn supporting Kash Patel's FBI directorship partly on the expectation he would release Epstein information.