DOJ defends meeting initial Epstein files release deadline while doubts linger over full disclosure

WASHINGTON, DC: The Justice Department on Friday, December 19, pushed back against claims that it would miss the statutory deadline to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein, saying that it was meeting the “initial deadline” while continuing to review materials to protect survivors.

In a statement posted on X by its public affairs office, the department rejected reporting suggesting delays, arguing that the Trump administration was delivering unprecedented transparency compared to previous administrations.

“The DOJ is releasing a massive tranche of new documents that the Biden and Obama administrations refused to release,” the statement said. “The story here: the Trump administration is providing levels of transparency that prior administrations never even contemplated.”

DOJ responds to deadline criticism

The statement followed mounting criticism from lawmakers after Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche claimed earlier that the department might not release the entirety of the Epstein files by Friday.

That warning triggered backlash from both Republicans and Democrats, who cited the 'Epstein Files Transparency Act’s' requirement that unclassified records be made public within 30 days of enactment.

Justice Department officials insisted that the Friday deadline is being honored.

“The initial deadline is being met as we work diligently to protect victims,” the DOJ said, emphasizing that the review process is ongoing to ensure appropriate safeguards.

Accusations of incomplete disclosure

Despite the DOJ’s assurances, the department has previously faced accusations from lawmakers and watchdogs of failing to release the full scope of Epstein-related materials.

Critics have argued that prior disclosures were incomplete or overly redacted, fueling skepticism over whether the latest release will satisfy the law’s requirements.

Several lawmakers have warned that anything short of full compliance could violate the statute, which was passed by Congress last month and signed into law by President Donald Trump. 

Scrutiny over Biden administration's failure to release the Epstein Files

Former Vice President Kamala Harris was asked on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on Wednesday, December 17, about why the Biden administration didn’t push for the disclosure of the Epstein Files while in office.

She revealed that the separation between the administration and the Department of Justice was intentional.

Harris added that the Biden administration believed that there should be an “absolute separation” between what they wanted as an administration and what the DOJ did.