Ro Khanna Demands Bondi Testimony, Criticizes War Funding

Khanna Urges Continued Scrutiny of Pam Bondi Over Epstein Files

California Congressman Ro Khanna is maintaining that former Attorney General Pam Bondi must still testify before Congress regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files, even after her recent departure from office. Speaking on “Meet the Press,” Khanna drew a parallel to the scrutiny faced by figures like Hillary Clinton, who was out of office but still held accountable for her actions. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, particularly concerning the Epstein case.

“If we can chase Hillary Clinton who has not been in office, she can answer why she’s covered up documents and been a prosecution,” Khanna stated. He argued that the Senate must commit to releasing all Epstein files without redactions, except for those protecting survivors. Furthermore, he called for investigations and prosecutions of individuals implicated in the case, noting that some, like Lex Wexner, have yet to face legal consequences.

Congressman Vows to Pursue Epstein File Release

Khanna outlined a strategy to make the release of the Epstein files a central issue for any new Attorney General. He warned that the incoming official would face similar scrutiny to Pam Bondi if they did not comply. Khanna highlighted that survivors of Epstein’s abuse are still seeking justice and that he is working with bipartisan colleagues, including Nancy Mace and Lauren Boebert, to ensure the law is followed.

Additionally, Khanna has publicly urged King Charles III to meet with Epstein survivors during his upcoming visit to the United States. This request was echoed by the family of Virginia Giuffre, a survivor who tragically died by suicide last year. The congressman believes such a meeting would be a powerful acknowledgment of the survivors’ suffering and a strong statement against associating with individuals like Epstein.

“The Epstein survivors want this, and not just Ginni [Giuffre]’s family,” Khanna explained. “They want someone powerful to acknowledge what they’ve been through. They want them to have justice for people who abused them.” He pointed to Britain’s actions, such as prosecuting individuals connected to Epstein, as a model for how to address these complex issues. Khanna sees King Charles’s potential meeting as an opportunity for the British monarchy to distance itself from the Epstein scandal and stand with victims.

Khanna Opposes New War Funding, Advocates for Domestic Investment

In a strong stance against escalating military action, Congressman Khanna firmly rejected a proposed $400 million funding request. He argued that this money could be better spent on crucial domestic programs, a concept he terms “economic patriotism.” Khanna believes Democrats should unite in opposition to this funding, redirecting resources toward initiatives like universal childcare, free public college, and increased teacher salaries.

“The answer from every Democrat should be absolutely no,” Khanna declared. “We don’t need to read it. We don’t need to study it. It’s $400 billion for a war that we oppose?” He contrasted this proposed spending with tangible benefits for American citizens, stating, “We could have universal childcare for that. We could have free public college for that. We could pay teachers $60,000 for that.”

Debate on Engaging with Controversial Media Figures

The interview also touched upon Congressman Khanna’s appearances on shows hosted by controversial figures, including the streamer Hasan Piker. Khanna defended his decision to engage with such platforms, arguing that it is essential for Democrats to connect with a broader audience in a diverse democracy. He acknowledged that Piker has made comments that are objectionable, but stressed the importance of direct engagement over avoidance.

“We have to be out there and engage,” Khanna insisted. “It’s a multi-racial democracy. I will defend my view, but the people saying don’t engage will cost us future elections.” He likened this approach to appearing on other widely-viewed programs, suggesting that the key is to present one’s own views and push back against harmful rhetoric when necessary. Khanna believes that refusing to engage with platforms that have large followings risks alienating potential supporters and ceding valuable ground to opposing viewpoints.

When questioned about the risk of legitimizing certain views by appearing on these shows, Khanna reiterated his belief in the necessity of direct dialogue. He stated, “He has millions of followers whether Ro Khanna goes on his show or not. The point is that we should go on and have tough conversations.” He emphasized that the test should be what one says and does on these platforms, particularly in pushing back against antisemitism. Khanna drew a line at appearing on platforms like Alex Jones, but maintained that engagement with figures like Piker, who has millions of followers and has been critical of certain foreign policy stances, is crucial for the Democratic Party’s outreach efforts.

Future Political Aspirations

While speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028 continues, Congressman Khanna stated his immediate focus is on the 2026 elections. He expressed a commitment to winning the House and combating what he described as “Trump’s corruption.” Khanna also highlighted his forward-looking vision, which includes addressing job losses related to artificial intelligence and promoting economic policies aimed at lowering costs for Americans.

“I am focused on 2026 and we will win and stop Trump’s corruption,” Khanna affirmed. “I have a vision of what we’ll do with AI to prevent job loss. A vision of what we’ll do economic patriotism to lower costs.” He indicated that while he has a clear economic vision, securing victory in the upcoming House elections is the primary objective before considering any future presidential ambitions.

Source: Ro Khanna says Pam Bondi still needs to testify to Congress over Epstein files: Full interview (YouTube)