Story perspectives

Lawmakers Demand DOJ Probe Over Epstein Files Surveillance

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lawmakers demand investigations into the Department of Justice for allegedly tracking searches of unredacted Epstein files.
Photos from a congressional hearing show Attorney General Pam Bondi with a document labeled “Jayapal Pramila Search History” detailing Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wa.)'s searches.
Jayapal condemned the practice as a violation of the separation of powers.
Raskin criticized the DOJ's oversight methods, stating they were designed for surveillance.

History

Historical Context

The separation of powers doctrine, established in the U.S. Constitution in 1787, divides government authority among the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches to prevent abuse of power. Recent allegations against the Department of Justice regarding surveillance of Representative Pramila Jayapal's search history reflect ongoing concerns about governmental transparency and accountability, underscoring the importance of civil liberties in a democratic society.

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Story summary

Lawmakers demand investigations into the Department of Justice for allegedly tracking searches of unredacted Epstein files.
Photos from a congressional hearing show Attorney General Pam Bondi with a document labeled “Jayapal Pramila Search History” detailing Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wa.)'s searches.
Jayapal condemned the practice as a violation of the separation of powers.
Raskin criticized the DOJ's oversight methods, stating they were designed for surveillance.

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