Democrats on the House Oversight Committee are accusing Republican leadership of staging a “cover-up” as records tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation are released in fragments rather than in full. The criticism comes amid missed deadlines and growing calls for transparency.
Oversight Committee’s Plan
Chairman James Comer (R-KY) announced the committee will release Department of Justice records related to Epstein after conducting a review and redacting sensitive material. The records are being coordinated with the DOJ to remove victims’ identities and child sexual abuse content. “There are many records in DOJ’s custody, and it will take the Department time to produce all the records and ensure the identification of victims and any child sexual abuse material is redacted,” Comer said.
Democrats Call It a ‘Cover-Up’
Democrats argue the staggered release undermines public trust. Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA) accused Comer of selectively delivering documents: “Releasing the Epstein files in batches just continues this White House cover-up. The American people will not accept anything short of the full, unredacted Epstein files.”
Bipartisan Subpoena Demands
Garcia noted that the committee previously voted in bipartisan fashion to demand full compliance. He added that partial disclosures were “wholly insufficient and potentially misleading,” especially after Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed months ago to have the full files in her possession.
GOP Leadership Response
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said he supports transparency but stressed the need to give the administration time to carefully redact sensitive content. “I appreciate the Trump Administration’s commitment to transparency and efforts to provide the American people with information about this matter,” Comer added, emphasizing DOJ’s role in the process.
Rules Committee Signals Pressure
House Rules Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) urged faster action, stating, “I’d really like to see this resolved, if possible, before we get back, as much information as possible to come out.” Leadership has delayed a vote on full public release to allow additional coordination with the DOJ.