Washington, D.C. — July 18, 2025: Former President Donald Trump has publicly urged former Florida Attorney General and current Trump legal adviser Pam Bondi to intensify efforts for the release of sealed Jeffrey Epstein-related court documents. The call comes as Congress moves to restrict Justice Department funding, escalating tensions over transparency and accountability surrounding high-profile cases.
Trump Calls for Transparency on Epstein Files
In a series of posts on Truth Social late Thursday, Trump called for Bondi to "use all available legal avenues" to ensure the prompt release of Epstein-related materials still under court seal. The documents, which have been the subject of ongoing legal battles, are believed to include names of prominent individuals and details about Epstein’s alleged criminal activities and network.
Pam Bondi, who has been a key member of Trump's legal team since the 2024 campaign, confirmed in a press briefing that her office is "actively reviewing all legal options to expedite the release, in accordance with the law." Bondi emphasized the public's right to know, citing growing bipartisan calls for transparency in the Epstein investigation.
Congress Moves to Limit Justice Department Funding
Meanwhile, the House Appropriations Committee passed a measure late Wednesday to temporarily restrict discretionary funding for the Department of Justice (DOJ). Lawmakers from both parties cited "continued lack of transparency" in high-profile investigations, including the Epstein case, as justification for the rare move. The provision, which still faces debate in the Senate, is intended to pressure the DOJ to accelerate the release of sealed materials and comply with congressional oversight requests.
- Key provision: The funding clawback targets administrative and legal expenses related to sealed case files.
- Bipartisan support: Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have expressed frustration over delays in document production.
- DOJ response: The Justice Department has warned that funding restrictions could hamper ongoing investigations and prosecutions, but stated it is "committed to lawful transparency."
What’s at Stake
The push for release of Epstein-related documents has intensified amid renewed scrutiny of the late financier’s network and alleged accomplices. Advocacy groups and several members of Congress have argued that public disclosure is essential for accountability and the prevention of future abuses.
Some legal experts warn that broad unsealing could compromise ongoing investigations or violate privacy rights of individuals not charged with any crime. Nevertheless, the political momentum appears to be shifting toward greater openness, fueled by sustained public interest and recent developments in related federal cases.
Next Steps
- The Senate is expected to debate the DOJ funding provision in the coming days.
- The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York is scheduled to hold a hearing on pending motions to unseal Epstein-related documents next week.
- Pam Bondi’s legal team is reportedly preparing new filings to accelerate the review process.
Stay with us for live updates as this story develops.
