Dem Lawmaker Vows Bondi Contempt Over Epstein Files Subpoena

Oversight Committee Demands Answers on Epstein Files

A top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee is pushing forward with a subpoena for former Attorney General Pam Bondi, demanding her testimony regarding the ongoing investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein files. Congressman Robert Garcia, the ranking member of the committee, stated that the subpoena remains legally binding for Bondi, regardless of her recent departure from her position.

Subpoena Stands Despite Bondi’s Departure

The committee had issued a subpoena for Pam Bondi to testify under oath about the Epstein files. A spokesperson for the committee confirmed they were in contact with Bondi’s attorneys to discuss the next steps. However, a Department of Justice spokesperson responded to the possibility of contempt charges, stating that Bondi’s removal as attorney general makes both the subpoena and the purpose of calling her moot. This stance has been challenged by Congressman Garcia.

“The subpoena is clear. It’s for Pam Bondi whether she is the attorney general or not. Why she wouldn’t want to answer questions about this is an incredibly important case to so many survivors and, quite frankly, the entire American public is bizarre.”

Legal Battle Over Subpoena Language

The core of the dispute lies in the wording of the subpoena. While the committee spokesperson initially indicated the subpoena referred to Bondi by both her name and title, Garcia clarified that the motion filed on the committee floor specifically named “the honorable Pam Bondi.” He argued that legally, a subpoena is for the individual, not their position, and remains binding even if they change jobs or leave public service.

“Legally, at the end of the day, if somebody is under subpoena, it doesn’t matter if they change jobs, if they have a job, if they don’t, they’re expected to appear before Congress,” Garcia explained. He pointed to previous instances where former Attorneys General like Bill Barr and even former Presidents like the Clintons have testified before the committee, establishing a precedent for securing testimony from former officials.

Allegations of White House Cover-Up

Garcia accused the White House of orchestrating a cover-up related to the Epstein files. He highlighted that survivors’ identities have been exposed and that half of the files have still not been released to the public. The committee, with bipartisan support, sought Bondi’s testimony as her first and only testimony exclusively on the Epstein files.

“She led and has been continuing to lead a White House cover-up on the Epstein files,” Garcia stated. “Survivors have been hurt, identities have been exposed. Half of the files, half, have still not been released to the public.” He emphasized that survivors deserve justice and that Bondi needs to answer questions about the delay and the incomplete release of information.

Timing of Bondi’s Departure Questioned

Reports from The Washington Post suggest that President Trump’s dissatisfaction with Bondi’s handling of the Epstein files release may have influenced his decision to replace her. This timing, just two weeks before her scheduled testimony, has raised further questions.

“The real question is not just about the horrific crime that Jeffrey Epstein committed… Why this delay? Why haven’t we seen 50% of the files?” Garcia questioned. He believes Bondi, as the person in charge of the file release, holds crucial information and has an opportunity to tell the truth and “do right by the survivors.”

Potential Testimony from Todd Blanche

The committee is also open to testimony from Acting AG Todd Blanche, who played a significant role in the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein investigation and file release. Blanche was the deputy AG during the initial stages and interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell last summer. Garcia expressed openness to having both Blanche and Bondi testify.

“We would definitely want to have Todd Blanche in front of the committee,” Garcia said. He also noted Blanche’s prior role as Donald Trump’s personal lawyer, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation. Garcia stressed that the pursuit of justice for survivors is not a partisan issue and is supported by both Republicans and Democrats.

Call for Truth and Justice

Congressman Garcia reiterated the committee’s demand for truth and accountability. He stated that if Pam Bondi fails to appear under her legal subpoena, the committee will proceed with holding her in contempt and initiating that process within Congress. The fight for justice for the Epstein survivors and transparency regarding the files remains the committee’s priority.

Source: ‘Demanding answers’: Top Oversight Dem says Bondi subpoena applies to her no matter what (YouTube)