Mix-Up in Epstein Files Release Sparks Outrage

Controversial List Raises Questions

Pam Bondi, the Attorney General, has come under fire following the Department of Justice's (DOJ) release of a list of names linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case. The list, which included both anticipated and surprising figures, has sparked accusations of a potential cover-up.

Notable Names

Among the expected entries were:

• President Donald Trump
• Les Wexner
• Steve Bannon

But the list also included unexpected names:

• Former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden
• Actor George Clooney
• Lawmakers Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna

The inclusion of deceased celebrities like Janis Joplin alongside convicted predator Larry Nassar has raised eyebrows and questions.

Criticism of the DOJ's Approach

Critics argue that the DOJ's strategy of mixing names of people mentioned in passing with those actively involved dilutes the impact of the evidence. This approach, they say, is a classic way to protect the powerful.

Rep. Ro Khanna was one of the loudest critics, accusing the DOJ of "muddying the waters" and calling for the full release of the files. He highlighted the absurdity of listing Janis Joplin, who died when Epstein was a teenager, alongside Larry Nassar.

DOJ Under Scrutiny

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.