Attorney General Bondi Faces Scrutiny Over Epstein Files Release

Bipartisan criticism expected at House Judiciary Committee hearing on Wednesday

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Attorney General Pam Bondi is expected to face bipartisan skepticism over her handling of the release of investigative files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein when she testifies before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday. Both Republicans and Democrats have criticized Bondi's conduct, with Republicans accusing her of slow-walking or blocking the release of some material, and Democrats criticizing her willingness to pursue cases against Trump's foes.

Why it matters

The Epstein fiasco has defined Bondi's tenure as Attorney General, with her actions being viewed as tarnishing her credibility. The hearing is expected to be a politically charged event, with Bondi's combative approach in past hearings earning her praise from President Trump but criticism from Democrats.

The details

At the House Judiciary Committee hearing, Bondi is expected to face questions from both Republicans and Democrats over her handling of the Epstein files. Republican Representative Thomas Massie has accused Bondi and her deputy of slow-walking or blocking the release of some material, while Democrats are expected to criticize Bondi's willingness to pursue cases against Trump's foes and the Justice Department's actions after the killing of two U.S. citizens during protests against immigration enforcement in Minneapolis.

  • The House Judiciary Committee hearing is scheduled for Wednesday morning.

The players

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General of the United States.

Thomas Massie

A Republican member of the House Judiciary Committee who has frequently criticized Bondi and her deputy over the handling of the Epstein files.

Sheldon Whitehouse

A Democratic Senator from Rhode Island who pressed Bondi about the Justice Department's decision to drop an investigation into Tom Homan, the Trump administration's border czar.

Kash Patel

The FBI director who, along with Bondi, has been characterized by a refusal to address questions they might view as inconvenient.

Tom Homan

The Trump administration's border czar who was recorded accepting a bag with $50,000 in cash in an undercover FBI investigation.

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What they’re saying

“She's been all over the map. She has no credibility over this matter.”

— Thomas Massie, Republican Representative of Kentucky (CNN)

“Attorney General Bondi made up nonsense to avoid answering.”

— Sheldon Whitehouse, Democratic Senator of Rhode Island (nytimes.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.