House Seeks Unredacted Epstein Files Ahead August Recess

The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is intensifying its investigation into the late Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking crimes, seeking to subpoena the Department of Justice for unredacted files and to depose Epstein's former associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence in Florida, recently met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, a former personal lawyer of President Donald Trump, who questioned her extensively about Epstein's crimes and any potential clients. President Trump, who was a known associate of Epstein and has faced scrutiny over their relationship, has urged for the release of credible evidence related to the case, though some in his administration have been reluctant to fully disclose information. The investigation has sparked bipartisan interest, with Democrats and some Republicans pushing for transparency, including the release of grand jury documents, while conspiracy theories about Epstein's death and the extent of his network continue to circulate. Despite Trump's efforts to move past the scandal, the inquiry remains a significant distraction during his current administration, with lawmakers demanding accountability and thorough examination of the prosecutorial decisions, communications, and potential involvement of high-profile individuals. The situation remains fluid as Maxwell considers responding to congressional subpoenas after her meeting with DOJ officials, and the House committee plans further actions following their August recess.