Full Breakdown
Bondi’s Testimony on Epstein Files Stalls Over Trump-Related Questions
5/30/2026, 12:33:59 AM
Bondi’s Testimony on May 29 2026
Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee in a closed-door interview on May 29 2026. She declined to answer questions about President Donald Trump’s knowledge of the Jeffrey Epstein case. Committee members said Department of Justice attorneys intervened to block further questioning.
Background
Bondi oversaw the Justice Department’s handling of Epstein-related documents while serving as Florida attorney general. She was dismissed by President Trump in early April 2026, days before a subpoena named her for a deposition on the matter. The subpoena sought details on the administration’s management of the files.
Timeline of Key Dates
- Early April 2026 – President Trump terminates Bondi’s service.
- May 29 2026 – Closed-door interview; DOJ attorneys intervene.
- May 30 2026 – Democrats request Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s testimony and warn of a subpoena.
Official Statements & Responses
Robert Garcia noted Bondi’s refusal to discuss the president. Rep. James Walkinshaw cited her answer that she “doesn’t know” and is “not certain of the extent of his knowledge.” The Justice Department said the interview was voluntary and that Bondi was not required to answer under oath. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche declined comment on further document releases.
Criticism & Opposition
Democrats accused the Justice Department of shielding Bondi and enabling a cover-up. Rep. Melanie Stansbury described the DOJ intervention as an effort to block answers about the president’s involvement. Committee leaders have called for Acting Attorney General Blanche’s appearance and signaled readiness to pursue a subpoena vote.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether Bondi was deposed under oath; the committee described the session as voluntary, while Democrats argue the lack of oath undermines accountability. The Justice Department’s claim that privilege does not apply conflicts with the committee’s expectation that subpoenaed witnesses answer relevant questions.
Quotes
- “She said she would not speak or respond to any questions that have anything to do with President Trump.” — Robert Garcia, Ranking Member, House Oversight Committee
- “She was asked specifically about Donald Trump, President Trump’s awareness of Epstein’s crimes before they became public knowledge… Instead, she said, ‘I don’t know.’” — James Walkinshaw, Representative
- “When asked specifically about a conversation with Donald Trump, one of the Department of Justice Attorneys intervened and said that she did not have to answer the question because it was a voluntary interview… we refuse to provide answers.” — Melanie Stansbury, Representative
- “That means the United States Department of Justice is intervening on behalf of Pam Bondi… This is a cover-up.” — Melanie Stansbury, Representative
Implications and Next Steps
Democrats intend to press Chairman James Comer to subpoena Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche for testimony. If Blanche does not appear, the committee will vote on a subpoena. The outcome could affect public access to remaining Epstein documents and broader oversight of the executive branch’s handling of the case.
