Full Breakdown
Nancy Mace Challenges DOJ Over Epstein Files Redactions
2/16/2026, 8:00:59 AM
Background on the Epstein Files Transparency Act
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed by Congress in late 2025, mandates the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The act was a response to public outcry following Epstein's death in custody and the conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell. The DOJ has since released over 3.5 million pages of documents, but many remain heavily redacted.
Nancy Mace's Criticism of DOJ Redactions
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has emerged as a vocal critic of the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files. Following a recent release of documents, Mace asserted that the DOJ's claims of having released all relevant files are misleading. She stated, “Despite the memo released by DOJ last night, not all the Epstein files have been released,” emphasizing that the legal justifications for redactions, such as "work product privilege," would not hold up in court.
Mace's criticism intensified after she reviewed unredacted portions of the files, expressing shock at the names that had been redacted. She stated, “You would be shocked... at some of the names that I have seen that came across the DOJ in emails that the DOJ is protecting,” referring to high-profile individuals across various sectors.
Allegations of Surveillance
Mace has also raised concerns about the DOJ's monitoring of lawmakers reviewing the Epstein files. Reports surfaced that the DOJ tracked the search histories of members of Congress during their review sessions. Mace described this practice as inappropriate, questioning the separation of powers and asserting, “The minute you open the document, the DOJ software tags your name in it.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) echoed Mace's concerns, stating that it is not appropriate for the DOJ to track lawmakers' activities while they conduct oversight.
Official Responses and Ongoing Tensions
Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the DOJ's actions, claiming that all records had been released in compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. However, Mace and other lawmakers, including Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), have continued to challenge the completeness of the disclosures.
Mace's frustration is compounded by her belief that the DOJ has not adequately addressed the needs of Epstein's victims. She stated, “If the DOJ is not going to do their job, then I will do their job for them,” indicating her commitment to pursuing justice for the victims.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files include both Republicans and Democrats. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) condemned the tracking of lawmakers' searches as an abuse of power, calling for an inquiry into the matter. The bipartisan criticism highlights a growing concern over the DOJ's transparency and accountability in the Epstein case.
What's Next
Mace has signaled her intention to pursue further action, including requests for additional documents from federal agencies. She aims to uncover the identities of co-conspirators and obtain unredacted materials, emphasizing her personal commitment to seeking justice for victims of abuse.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Despite the memo released by DOJ last night, not all the Epstein files have been released.” — Nancy Mace, U.S. Representative
- “In another post, Mace wrote: "If the DOJ isn't going to do their job and arrest predators, then we will do their job for them.” — Nancy Mace, U.S. Representative
- “The minute you open the document, the DOJ software tags your name in it,” — Nancy Mace, U.S. Representative
- “ It is totally inappropriate and against the separations of powers for the DOJ to surveil us as we search the Epstein files.” — Pramila Jayapal, U.S. Representative
The ongoing debate over the Epstein files continues to unfold, with Mace and her colleagues pushing for greater transparency and accountability from the DOJ.
