Epstein Files: Trump Photo and Documents Removed from DOJ Release Site
However, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has reportedly removed a number of documents, including a photo of President Donald Trump, from its release site.
The photo, released on Friday, showed a desk displaying a large assortment of framed and unframed photographs and other items, including at least two that clearly showed Trump’s face.
Lawmakers on Saturday noted that the image was missing from the DOJ website, sparking concerns about transparency and potential cover-ups.
Missing Documents and Trump’s Connection to Epstein
Meanwhile, at least 16 files, including the photo of Trump, have disappeared from the site, according to the Associated Press.
The DOJ continued its partial release with more files tied to the investigation early Saturday, but lawmakers are demanding a clear timeline for the remaining documents.
Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., said that Congress is considering holding impeachment hearings about Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche if the documents don’t comply with the law.
Trump’s Denials and the DOJ’s Response
Moreover, Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has not been accused of participating in Epstein’s sex crimes.
The DOJ said in a post on X that it wasn’t “redacting the names of any politicians” and cited comments made by Blanche reiterating such.
However, Blanche’s previous defense work for Trump has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Clinton’s Appearance in Released Photos
Consequently, former President Bill Clinton appeared in several photos released Friday, but it is unclear when or where they were taken.
One showed Clinton sitting in a chair next to a young woman, who sat on the chair’s armrest.
Clinton’s spokesman, Angel Urena, said that the White House hasn’t been hiding these files for months only to dump them late on a Friday to protect Bill Clinton.
Lawmakers Demand Transparency
In addition, lawmakers are demanding answers and transparency about the missing documents and the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files.
Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., accused the DOJ of openly disregarding the law and compared the language of the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the DOJ’s letter to Congress asserting privilege to omit materials related to decisions.
The White House referred questions about the missing photo to the DOJ, and CNBC has reached out to the Justice Department and House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., for comment.
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