WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday defended the Justice Department’s decision to release just a fraction of the Jeffrey Epstein files by the congressionally mandated deadline as necessary to protect survivors of sexual abuse by the disgraced financier.
Blanche stressed that the department is obliged to handle disclosures carefully, especially given the sensitive nature of the material involved. Notably, the partial release on Friday has drawn ire from Democratic lawmakers, accusing the administration of attempting to obscure information.
The deputy attorney general stated, The reason why we are still reviewing documents is simply to protect victims... The same individuals complaining about the lack of documents are those who don't want us to protect victims, during his remarks on NBC's Meet the Press.\
Blanche's comments mark the first extensive defense from the administration following the release of documents that included photographs, interview transcripts, and other records. However, significant records related to Epstein and interviews with survivors were notably absent.
Democrats like Rep. Jamie Raskin have criticized the Justice Department, arguing that the lack of transparency is indicative of a cover-up linked to individuals involved with Epstein, including prominent political figures like Donald Trump.
Despite the release of numerous documents, calls for further transparency continue to grow as the public's demand for justice related to Epstein's abuse escalates. Trump previously tried to keep the records sealed despite not being directly accused of any wrongdoing related to Epstein.
Blanche indicated that the department has identified more potential victims during ongoing document reviews. He also addressed the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell to a less secure prison earlier this year, citing her safety concerns as a priority.
As the situation remains fluid, discussions around impeachment of Justice Department officials by members of Congress continue, reflecting the ongoing clash between the administration and Democratic lawmakers regarding oversight and transparency.
