Dems Walk Out of ‘Fake’ Bondi Deposition Over Epstein Files

Democrats Storm Out of House Hearing, Citing ‘Bait and Switch’ Tactic

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee walked out of a closed-door deposition Tuesday, calling it a “fake hearing” and a “bait and switch” tactic orchestrated by Republicans. The hearing involved Attorney General Pam Bondi and was related to the ongoing investigation into the unreleased Jeffrey Epstein files. Democrats accused the Republican leadership of attempting to avoid a legitimate, sworn testimony and cover up information.

Epstein Files Investigation Sparks Controversy

The House Oversight Committee has been seeking access to documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case from the Department of Justice. These files are reportedly extensive, with the Department of Justice tallying costs around $3 million. A bipartisan vote authorized the committee to subpoena Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Committee Chair James Comer issued the subpoena on April 14th. However, the events that followed have created significant controversy.

Bondi’s Appearance Deemed a Stunt by Democrats

Pam Bondi and her top deputy, Todd Blanche, appeared at Capitol Hill on Tuesday, ostensibly to fulfill the subpoena. However, Democrats claim they arrived with little to no preparation. Approximately 30 minutes after entering the closed-door hearing room, Democratic lawmakers exited, protesting what they called a “stunt.” Congressman James Walking-shaw, a member of the Oversight Committee, described the situation.

“We found out about it yesterday with no time to prepare, with no format given to us. We opened up what was supposed to be a briefing by asking the attorney general… if she would commit to follow the subpoena that is in place, that compels her to answer questions, that’s under oath, transcribed and then made available to the American people, and she refused.”

Refusal to Commit to Sworn Testimony

The core of the dispute, according to Walking-shaw and other Democrats, was Bondi’s refusal to commit to a sworn deposition under oath. Ranking Member Robert Garcia reportedly asked Bondi if she would appear before the committee for a sworn deposition as required by the subpoena. Her response was evasive, and she refused to commit to following the law and complying with the subpoena. Democrats believe this was an attempt to avoid a public, transcribed testimony where she would be legally obligated to answer questions truthfully.

Allegations of Avoiding Transparency

Democrats argue that the private briefing was designed to circumvent the subpoena’s requirement for a formal, under-oath deposition. They claim Bondi and Chairman Comer arranged for her to appear on short notice to answer questions, allowing her to claim compliance with the subpoena without actually undergoing the legally mandated process. This, they contend, is part of a broader effort by the administration to keep the Epstein files secret.

Bondi’s Statement Adds to Confusion

When questioned by reporters after the hearing, Bondi was asked if she would commit to complying with the subpoena and appearing for a closed-door deposition. She responded, “I made it crystal clear I will follow the law.” This statement, interpreted by many Democrats as non-committal, did little to quell concerns about her intentions.

Precedent Set by Clinton Deposition

Congressman Walking-shaw emphasized that there is a clear precedent for such situations. He referenced a previous instance involving the Clintons’ deposition, where Chairman Comer pursued criminal contempt charges when they did not appear on the scheduled date. Walking-shaw asserted that Attorney General Bondi will have to follow this precedent and answer questions under oath, regardless of attempts to delay or avoid the process.

Future of the Investigation

Despite the controversy surrounding Tuesday’s brief appearance, Democrats remain determined to secure Bondi’s sworn testimony. They believe the law is clear and that the committee has the leverage to ensure compliance. The next key date is April 14th, as set by the subpoena. It remains to be seen whether Bondi will appear for the deposition or if further action will be necessary to compel her testimony and access the Epstein files. The committee’s pursuit of these documents and the truth behind the Epstein case is ongoing.

Source: ‘Bait and switch’: Dems STORM OUT of GOP’s ‘fake’ Bondi deposition (YouTube)