Gavin Newsom questions missing Epstein files from DOJ site, asks what Trump allies are hiding

WASHINGTON, DC: California Gov Gavin Newsom on Saturday, Dec 20, raised concerns about missing documents from the Department of Justice’s recently released batch of Jeffrey Epstein-related files.

He suggested that the absence of some materials raises questions about transparency and adherence to the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

Newsom’s comments came after reports that several files, including one with a photograph of President Donald Trump, were briefly posted on the DOJ website before being taken down.

Gavin Newsom hints on Trump ‘hiding’ something

The Epstein Files Transparency Act mandates the gradual public disclosure of records related to Epstein’s prosecution and contacts.

Newsom suggested the removals could point to deliberate withholding of information and directly accused allies of President Donald Trump of hiding material from public view.

In a post on X, Newsom’s Press Office wrote, “WHAT ARE TRUMP, BONDI, AND KASH HIDING? IS THIS WHY BONGINO QUIT THE DAY BEFORE THEY IGNORED THE LAW AND RELEASED ONLY A FEW FILES?”

Files briefly posted, then removed

According to reports, at least 16 files related to Epstein were posted on the DOJ’s website before being removed. 

The deleted materials reportedly included a document with a photograph of Donald Trump. 

Observers watching the DOJ site noticed the files were gone, leading to online speculation about whether the removal was intentional or due to administrative or legal problems.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the DOJ to release documents in phases. This approach balances public disclosure with privacy protections and legal limits. 

However, the temporary availability of certain files, along with their sudden removal, has led to claims that the process is inconsistent and unclear.

Newsom’s comments presented the issue as a political cover-up. He connected the missing files to key Trump supporters and to conservative media personality Dan Bongino. 

Bongino recently left his position as a deputy director at the FBI. While Newsom suggested a link between Bongino’s exit and the file release, no public evidence has confirmed any relationship.

In previous statements addressing similar criticism, DOJ officials said that document releases might change because of technical errors, legal reviews, or the need to add more redactions to meet privacy laws and court orders.

The DOJ has also mentioned that references to politically exposed persons are not being redacted selectively. Additional Epstein-related materials will continue to be released as required by law.

It remains unclear whether the removed documents will be reposted or formally explained by the DOJ.