Trump DOJ Blasts Epstein Files as ‘Clearly Fake’
By Charlotte Bennett
January 9, 2026 2:06 AM
US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed growing speculation surrounding the release of Jeffrey Epstein–related documents, saying some materials disclosed by the government are “fake or false” but were released because the Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to produce every document in its possession.
Blanche made the remarks in response to online claims and viral content tied to the latest tranche of files.
He said, “There has been lots of sensationalism and even outright lies these past few days about the ‘Epstein Files.’ But let’s separate fact from fiction. Document production is just that. We produce documents, and sometimes this can result in releasing fake or false documents because they simply are in our possession because the law requires this.”
He cited specific examples, including what he called the “so‑called Epstein Nassar letter,” which he said was “clearly FAKE — wrong handwriting, wrong return address and postmarked three days after Epstein died.” Blanche also referenced “fake videos of Epstein in his cell” and “photos with no explanation,” adding that “sensational tales and lies by random people… are not reality.”
Reason behind the dispute
The comments came as the Justice Department faced scrutiny over its handling of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of nearly all federal records tied to Epstein’s criminal cases and related investigations.
DOJ leadership informed a federal judge that more than 99 percent of the files remain unreleased, with over two million documents still under review. The department has cited victim privacy concerns and ongoing investigative interests as reasons for the delay.
The FBI and the U.S. District Attorney’s Office identified more than one million additional documents potentially linked to Epstein, extending the disclosure timeline beyond the statutory deadline. Justice Department teams are reviewing about 5.2 million pages, with roughly 400 employees assisting in the process.
Reactions from lawmakers and officials
Rep. Thomas Massie wrote on X that Trump blamed him for the transparency law while defending those with former ties to Epstein.
He claimed, “Trump is blaming me for a bill he eventually signed, while defending his banker friends, Bill Clinton, and ‘innocent’ visitors to island. Meanwhile Bondi is working fervently to redact, omit and delete Epstein files she is legally required to release under our bill.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi issued her own statement on X, reaffirming that the department would pursue charges against anyone involved in the trafficking or exploitation of Epstein’s victims.
She said, “The Department of Justice previously stated we will bring charges against anyone involved in the trafficking and exploitation of Jeffrey Epstein’s victims. We reaffirm this commitment, and ask any victim to please come forward with any information pertaining to any individuals who engaged in illicit activity at their expense.
We have met with many victims and victims groups, and will continue to do so if more reach out. Please contact myself, DAG Blanche, or the FBI and we will investigate immediately. We believe in the equal standard of justice in this country and will ensure that Justice is served.”
Lawmakers from both parties noted they will continue oversight efforts to ensure full compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
https://thedailyadda.com/2026/01/09/tru ... arly-fake/
