Schumer to Introduce Senate Resolution to Compel Full Release of Epstein Files by DOJ
Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer announced plans to introduce a Senate resolution directing legal action against the Department of Justice (DOJ) to compel the full release of Epstein-related files. This resolution would authorize a lawsuit seeking a court order to ensure compliance.
The move follows the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act last month, which was signed into law by President Trump. The law set a deadline of 19 December for the DOJ to release all documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. However, the DOJ only disclosed a partial set of documents, comprising more than 7,700 links to photos and court documents. Attorney General Pam Bondi described this release as the "first phase." Critics contend that the release is incomplete and violates the law's requirements.
DOJ Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the partial disclosure, citing ongoing review processes aimed at protecting victims. The law also mandated that the DOJ provide a written explanation to Congress and the public within 15 days concerning any withheld documents. Lawmakers, including Hakeem Jeffries, have criticized the adequacy of the DOJ's response, labeling the release as inadequate.
Discussions in Congress have included enforcement options such as contempt citations, lawsuits, or even impeachment proceedings. Representatives Ro Khanna and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have called for impeachment based on the DOJ's failure to fully comply. During the document release, an image featuring Donald Trump was temporarily removed and then restored, drawing additional attention to the proceedings.
