Bondi Admits Redaction Errors in Epstein Files, Deflects to Blanche, May 30

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi testified before the House Oversight Committee on May 29 about the Justice Department’s release of nearly 3 million pages of Epstein-related documents. Bondi admitted the department made “redaction errors” but defended the overall handling as transparent. Democrats accused her of dodging questions about President Trump’s involvement and repeatedly deflecting responsibility to her successor, Todd Blanche.

What Bondi Said About the Document Release

Bondi told lawmakers the Epstein Files Transparency Act required an “enormously complicated and labor-intensive process.” She said the department produced nearly 3 million pages and complied with the law. Bondi admitted “there were redaction errors” but claimed the department remained committed to accountability and transparency since day one. She stated that only nonresponsive, privileged, or duplicative materials were withheld.

How Bondi Shifted Responsibility

Bondi said she delegated oversight of the document review to then-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who is now acting attorney general. She emphasized she did not “lead every aspect” of the effort or “conduct the document review” herself. Democrats said Bondi repeatedly pointed to Blanche when asked about the files, with one lawmaker noting she gave responses of “not to my recollection,” “I don’t know,” or “talk with Todd Blanche.”

Democrats Push Back on Trump Questions

Rep. Robert Garcia, the ranking Democrat on the committee, said Bondi refused to answer any questions about President Trump’s involvement. He asked her five times about conversations with Trump, what he directed her to redact, and what he knew. Bondi declined to respond to questions about Trump, with government lawyers blocking some answers. Survivors of Epstein’s abuse gathered outside the Capitol to protest during the hearing.

The Broader Investigation

The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Bondi in March to investigate alleged mismanagement of the Epstein case and compliance with the transparency law. Trump fired Bondi in April, reportedly frustrated with her handling of the Epstein files. The committee is also examining decisions about investigating Epstein associates and the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell from a Florida federal prison to a Texas prison camp in August 2025.

Final Thoughts

Bondi’s testimony exposed a divide between her defense of DOJ transparency and Democratic claims she avoided accountability. The refusal to answer Trump questions and shifting of responsibility to Blanche suggests the investigation will continue beyond this hearing.

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