Democrats are accusing Pam Bondi of stonewalling during a closed-door session with lawmakers investigating the Justice Department's handling of Jeffrey Epstein files.
The former attorney general appeared for an interview to answer questions about the release of sealed documents related to the disgraced financier. But according to Democratic lawmakers, Bondi refused to engage when the conversation turned to Donald Trump's connection to Epstein.
The refusal to discuss Trump drew sharp criticism from members of Congress who say transparency about the Justice Department's decision-making is essential. They argue that withholding answers about any relevant party undermines the legitimacy of the investigation into how and why the files were released.
Bondi served as attorney general under Trump and has remained a close political ally. Her reluctance to address Trump's ties to Epstein during official questioning raises questions about whether she views such inquiries as beyond the scope of her role or whether she is simply protecting the former president from further scrutiny.
The Epstein documents that were released contained thousands of pages naming individuals allegedly connected to the financier. The Justice Department's decision to unseal the files generated significant public interest and renewed focus on those who may have been associated with Epstein before his 2019 death in custody.
Democrats indicated they plan to pursue the matter further, suggesting Bondi's evasiveness during the interview may prompt additional requests for clarification or cooperation.
Author James Rodriguez: "Stonewalling during a deposition about a politically charged matter is a risky play, and it's telling us something."
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