Pam Bondi's Explosive Testimony on Epstein Files Sparks Controversy

Fri Feb 13 2026 03:46:21 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

US Attorney General Pam Bondi faced intense scrutiny during a congressional hearing regarding her department's handling of the Epstein files, culminating in heated exchanges and allegations of mismanagement.

During a fiery four-hour congressional hearing, US Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the justice department's handling of Jeffrey Epstein's files while facing critical questioning from both Democrats and Republicans. The hearing, marked by personal attacks and dramatics, saw Bondi labeled Epstein a 'monster' but also faced accusations of failing to protect victims during the release of sensitive materials. Lawmakers demanded accountability for redactions in the files, with both sides of the aisle expressing discontent over the handling of the case.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the justice department's handling of the Epstein files during a fiery congressional hearing on Wednesday, facing a barrage of angry questions on other issues. Her testimony before the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee turned into a shouting match, with Bondi labeling a Democrat a 'washed up loser' and provoking a walkout from one lawmaker.

Here are some key exchanges from the hearing:

1. Epstein Victims Watch as Bondi Defends Redactions

The hearing followed the earlier release by the justice department of millions more files from its investigations into the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Several of Epstein's victims were present and frequently referenced during the proceedings.

Bondi called Epstein a 'monster' in her opening statement and expressed sorrow for the victims. However, she faced criticism regarding the handling of released files, with lawmakers asserting that private information, including names of victims, was improperly redacted. Democratic Representative Pramila Jayapal accused the department of mistakenly releasing sensitive material, including nude images of survivors, urging Bondi to apologize.

2. Republicans Join in Over Epstein Complaints

The bipartisan criticism over the redactions heated up, as lawmakers from both parties accused the justice department of failing to adhere to proper procedures for protecting unprotected individuals in the files. Republican Representative Thomas Massie demanded accountability, likening the situation to a major political scandal.

3. Lawmaker Asks About Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

California Democratic Representative Ted Lieu raised the issue of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who has faced calls to testify regarding Epstein and whose photo appeared in the files. The context of the image was not provided, and both Bondi and Lieu expressed frustration over past Attorney General Merrick Garland's handling of related inquiries.

4. Democrats Push for Minneapolis Investigation

Throughout the hearing, Bondi faced additional pressure over a separate incident involving federal immigration agents involved in the fatal shooting of two individuals in Minneapolis. Lawmakers criticized the lack of investigation into these incidents, describing them as unjust.

Overall, the hearing highlighted deep divisions and ongoing frustrations regarding the justice department’s management of the Epstein case and how it addresses victims' rights.