Pam Bondi to testify in House Jeffrey Epstein probe as battle over DOJ handling intensifies

Following political back-and-forth, committee Republicans announced that Bondi would appear to testify on May 29

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi is set to testify before the US House Oversight Committee as part of an ongoing investigation into the handling of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, escalating an already heated dispute between congressional Democrats and Republicans over transparency and accountability in the case.

Bondi, who served as attorney general during a period of intense scrutiny over the release of Epstein-related documents, was originally subpoenaed to appear for a deposition on April 14. However, after her dismissal from office by President Donald Trump, the Department of Justice initially argued she was no longer obligated to comply with the subpoena issued in her official capacity.

Following weeks of political back-and-forth, committee Republicans later announced that Bondi would instead appear on May 29 for a transcribed interview, framing earlier Democratic efforts to hold her in contempt as unnecessary.

Democrats on the Oversight Committee have pushed back strongly, accusing Bondi of defying a legally binding subpoena and withholding cooperation in what they describe as a critical investigation into how the Justice Department managed Epstein-related records. They argue her testimony is essential due to her direct involvement and oversight of key decisions regarding document releases and redactions.

The dispute has also highlighted deeper tensions over congressional access to Epstein files, with lawmakers from both parties questioning whether all required materials have been properly disclosed and whether sensitive information was handled appropriately. A separate DOJ watchdog review into the handling of Epstein documents is also underway, further intensifying scrutiny of the department’s actions.

Bondi’s upcoming appearance is expected to be a focal point in the broader investigation, which continues to examine how federal agencies managed one of the most closely scrutinised criminal cases in recent history, including decisions around transparency, redactions, and internal oversight.

As the inquiry moves forward, lawmakers say additional witnesses and document reviews are likely, keeping the Epstein files controversy at the center of Washington’s political and legal debate.