Schumer and Senate Democrats Accuse DOJ of Violating Transparency Law Over Heavily Redacted Epstein Files
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has accused the Department of Justice (DOJ) of violating federal transparency laws following the December release of Epstein-related documents that were heavily redacted.
The release came on December 19, shortly after President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act in November. This act mandates the release of all unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, internal DOJ decision-making, records concerning document destruction or tampering, and detention or death files, with limited exemptions pertaining to victims’ identities, medical and child abuse materials, and ongoing investigations or risks.
Schumer, who forced a Senate vote to pass the act, criticized the DOJ for releasing 119 pages that were completely blacked out and expressed concern that the release fell short of the law's requirements. Senate Democrats including Dick Durbin have vowed to pursue legal action and investigations into the DOJ's handling of the document release, accusing the Trump administration and GOP allies of protecting elites.
The DOJ described the document release as phased, stating that additional materials would be made available in the following weeks. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the importance of safeguarding victims’ identities and stories in the process. However, some of the more heavily redacted documents lacked explanation, prompting further criticism from Durbin and other Senate Democrats who argue the release does not meet the transparency standards set by the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
