Bondi deflected questions on Epstein files during five-hour hearing

Attorney General Pam Bondi testified for more than five hours before the House Judiciary Committee about the Justice Department's release of Jeffrey Epstein case files, and lawmakers raised concerns that redactions left victims' sensitive information exposed.

Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Judiciary Committee for a hearing that lasted over five hours focused on the Justice Department's release of Jeffrey Epstein case files. Lawmakers questioned the department's redactions after the files became public and said some victims' private information was exposed. Several survivors attended the hearing and, according to members of the committee, indicated they had sought contact with the Justice Department without receiving responses. Key points: - Pam Bondi defended the Justice Department's handling of the files and also spoke in defense of President Trump during the session. - Democratic lawmakers said released documents exposed sensitive personal information and reported that survivors in the room raised their hands to indicate they had not received responses from DOJ; Rep. Jamie Raskin characterized Bondi's responses as part of a "cover-up." - The hearing featured sharp exchanges between Republicans and Democrats, and some Democrats said they could pursue subpoenas or other oversight actions if they regain a House majority. Summary: The hearing underscored sharp partisan disagreement and ongoing concerns about the Justice Department's transparency and the protection of victims' information. Survivors' complaints and lawmakers' objections signal potential further congressional oversight. Undetermined at this time.