US Lawmakers to See Secret Epstein Papers

Two US lawmakers, Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, will visit the Justice Department to see secret papers about the Jeffrey Epstein case. This comes after many papers were shared, but some parts were hidden. The lawmakers want to see the full story.
By Newsroom | US Politics, Crime |

Two United States lawmakers, Representative Thomas Massie (Republican, Kentucky) and Representative Ro Khanna (Democrat, California), are scheduled to visit the Department of Justice (DOJ) to review unredacted documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. This action follows criticism that the DOJ's recent public release of millions of pages of documents was incomplete and heavily redacted. Survivors of Epstein's alleged abuse have also expressed dissatisfaction with the transparency of the DOJ's process.

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Background to the Document Review

The DOJ has been releasing documents concerning the Epstein investigation, with a significant release occurring on January 30, 2026. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had previously offered lawmakers access to review unredacted materials. Representatives Massie and Khanna have been prominent in pushing for greater transparency in the Epstein case, co-sponsoring legislation like the Epstein File Transparency Act. The upcoming visit signifies an effort to directly scrutinize the details that were omitted from public disclosure.

Read More: Rep. Chuy García Speaks Out on Epstein Files, Long Chicago Career

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  • Key Date: Documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation were released by the DOJ on January 30, 2026.

  • Offer of Access: Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche invited lawmakers to review unredacted files.

  • Lawmaker Initiative: Massie and Khanna are leading the bipartisan effort to examine these documents.

Concerns Over Redactions and Completeness

The DOJ's handling of the Epstein file releases has drawn scrutiny from multiple quarters. While the department has stated that its review process is complete after examining over six million documents, some information remains under protective order pending a judge's ruling. Survivors of Epstein's alleged abuse have been vocal in their criticism, asserting that the release is not final until all legally mandated documents are disclosed and all involved parties are fully identified. The bipartisan group of lawmakers also voiced concerns about the DOJ's adherence to disclosure deadlines and the extent of redactions applied to the released files.

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  • Survivor Statements: Survivors have called the DOJ's release "incomplete" and stated "This is not over."

  • DOJ's Position: Deputy Attorney General Blanche indicated the department awaits a judicial ruling on a few documents.

  • Lawmaker Criticism: Massie and Khanna previously expressed concern over missed deadlines and redactions.

Access to Unredacted Files

Following Blanche's offer, Massie and Khanna have formally requested to view the unredacted files. The DOJ has agreed to allow members of Congress to access these documents, with the review process scheduled to begin around February 9, 2026. While legislative staffers will not be permitted to view the documents, the lawmakers themselves will have the opportunity to examine the unredacted versions. Massie has actively solicited suggestions from the public regarding specific documents they believe warrant close attention during his visit.

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  • Scheduled Review: Access for Congress members is slated to commence the week of February 9, 2026.

  • Exclusion of Staff: Legislative aides will not be present during the review.

  • Public Engagement: Rep. Massie has asked for input on which documents to prioritize.

Past Legislative Efforts and Context

The push for transparency regarding the Epstein case has been ongoing, with Massie and Khanna playing a pivotal role. Their collaborative efforts were instrumental in the passage of the Epstein File Transparency Act in the previous year. This legislation aimed to facilitate greater public access to information related to the investigation. The current initiative to review unredacted files represents a continuation of these efforts to ensure comprehensive disclosure.

Read More: Pam Bondi Questioned About Epstein Files at Government Hearing

  • Bipartisan Collaboration: Massie and Khanna previously worked together on the Epstein File Transparency Act.

  • Legislative Support: Support for transparency efforts has varied within Congress, with a smaller group of House Republicans backing previous related measures.

Information Revealed in Released Documents

The millions of pages of documents released by the DOJ have brought to light various correspondences and details related to Epstein's associates and contacts. Reports indicate that these documents have shed new light on the relationships of prominent individuals, including former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, with Epstein. Some released materials include video and image content, though the DOJ has noted that not all of this content originates directly from Epstein or his immediate circle.

  • Notable Revelations: Documents have reportedly detailed the close relationship between Ehud Barak and Epstein.

  • Scope of Materials: The release includes videos and images, with DOJ clarifying their origin.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are lawmakers looking at these papers?
They want to see hidden parts of the Jeffrey Epstein documents because they think the papers shared with the public were not complete.
Q: Who is looking at the papers?
Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna will look at the papers.
Q: When can they see the papers?
They can start looking at the papers the week of February 9, 2026.
Q: Will helpers be allowed?
No, only the lawmakers themselves can see the papers, not their helpers.