Attorney General Pam Bondi Subpoenaed by Congress Over Epstein Files

Lawmakers seek answers on Justice Department's handling of sex trafficking investigation and document release.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:18am

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Attorney General Pam Bondi has been subpoenaed by the Republican-led House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform to answer questions about the Justice Department's handling of the sex trafficking investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and the release of millions of files related to the case. The committee chairman said Bondi, as the top federal prosecutor, has 'valuable insight' into the department's efforts to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

Why it matters

The subpoena underscores ongoing concerns from lawmakers, including some in President Trump's own party, over the Justice Department's management of the Epstein investigation files. Critics have accused the department of hiding certain documents and improperly redacting sensitive information, raising questions about transparency and accountability.

The details

Bondi was ordered to appear for a deposition on April 14 after a committee vote earlier this month that was supported by five Republicans. The Justice Department called the subpoena 'completely unnecessary,' saying Bondi and other officials have already briefed lawmakers and made the unredacted files available for review.

  • On March 17, 2026, Attorney General Pam Bondi was subpoenaed by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
  • Bondi is ordered to appear for a deposition on April 14, 2026.

The players

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General of the United States, responsible for overseeing the Justice Department's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation files.

James Comer

The Republican chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, which issued the subpoena to Bondi.

Todd Blanche

The Deputy Attorney General, who was expected to provide a private briefing to committee members along with Bondi.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on April 14, 2026 whether to allow Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

The takeaway

This subpoena highlights the ongoing political tensions and transparency concerns surrounding the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein investigation files, with lawmakers from both parties seeking greater accountability and access to the materials.