# DOJ leadership and independence under Attorney General Todd_ > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/justice-department-turmoil-firings-investigations-and-a-staffing-crunch-in-spring-2026 > Updated: 2026-09-10T02:13:38.000Z. Sources: 436. Developments: 80. Following his August 10 swearing-in, Attorney General Todd Blanche has focused on stabilizing a Department of Justice (DOJ) workforce facing mass resignations and accusations of political targeting. In a speech to DOJ employees, Blanche pledged to lead with integrity and uphold the rule of law “without fear or favor,” promising to avoid “performative attacks” on institutional integrity. However, Blanche has faced intense scrutiny for declining to pledge that the DOJ will act independently of the White House. In interviews, including on NBC’s ‘Meet the Press’, he argued that no attorney general should make such an “abstract promise,” asserting that the department must execute the president’s lawful law enforcement priorities. While Blanche maintained that President Trump “will never ask me to do something unethical or illegal,” critics and Democratic leaders have expressed concerns regarding the potential politicization of the agency. As Blanche attempts to reshape the institution, a leadership search for Deputy Attorney General has emerged. Trent McCotter, the Acting Deputy Attorney General, is a frontrunner despite scrutiny over his role in the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” and his dismissal of federal fraud charges against Gautam Adani. Blanche continues to defend his record against criticisms regarding previous approvals of tax-immunity agreements and compensation funds for Trump allies. Amidst these tensions, the DOJ is also navigating legal efforts to obtain state voter registration rolls and managing a reported exodus of experienced legal staff. ## Claims - Blanche agreed in writing to end the anti-weaponization fund to secure confirmation. (disputed by 7 sources) - As acting attorney general, Blanche approved a $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump allies. (disputed by 7 sources) - Blanche approved the creation of a $1.8 billion anti‑weaponization fund. (disputed by 4 sources) - The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as Attorney General with a 50-49 vote. (corroborated by 28 sources) - Attorney General Todd Blanche declined to pledge that the Department of Justice will act independently of the White House. (corroborated by 21 sources) - Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski voted against the nomination. (corroborated by 19 sources) - Todd Blanche had been serving as acting attorney general since April. (corroborated by 16 sources) - Todd Blanche asserted that President Trump would never ask him to perform an unethical or illegal act. (corroborated by 16 sources) - Senator Bill Cassidy provided the deciding vote for the confirmation. (corroborated by 14 sources) - Blanche expressed support for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro regarding her decision to drop vandalism charges against David Hearn. (corroborated by 13 sources) - Blanche pledged that the Department of Justice would act with integrity and prosecute without fear or favor. (corroborated by 11 sources) - Blanche expressed support for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's decision to drop vandalism charges against David Hearn. (corroborated by 10 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-10: Attorney General Todd Blanche delivers law-and-order speech at RNC convention Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, emphasizing a law-and-order platform while facing criticism over the political nature of his speech. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/attorney-general-todd-blanche-delivers-law-and-order-speech-at-rnc-convention ### 2026-08-27: Attorney General Todd Blanche defends DOJ independence amid political pressure Attorney General Todd Blanche defends his integrity and the independence of the DOJ amid criticism over his ties to Donald Trump and controversial decisions made during his tenure as acting attorney general. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/joe-biden-considered-pardoning-donald-trump-according-to-utah-governor ### 2026-08-20: Todd Blanche leads DOJ transformation amid Deputy AG search Attorney General Todd Blanche is reshaping the DOJ while Trent McCotter emerges as a frontrunner for Deputy Attorney General despite scrutiny over his role in the Anti-Weaponization Fund and the dismissal of Ad 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-leads-doj-transformation-amid-deputy-ag-search ### 2026-08-18: Todd Blanche declines to pledge DOJ independence from White House Attorney General Todd Blanche declined to pledge DOJ independence from the White House, stating President Trump will never ask him to perform unethical or illegal acts. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/attorney-general-todd-blanche-declines-to-pledge-doj-independence ### 2026-08-16: Attorney General Todd Blanche declines to pledge DOJ independence U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche declined to pledge DOJ independence from the White House, stating he would consider President Trump's views on prosecutions while denying he would ever act unethically. 68 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/attorney-general-todd-blanche-faces-criticism-over-new-york-rally-appearance ### 2026-08-13: Todd Blanche pledges integrity in first Justice Department speech Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed the Justice Department workforce, pledging to lead with integrity and uphold the rule of law following a period of staff depletion and political controversy. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-pledges-integrity-in-first-justice-department-speech ### 2026-08-11: Todd Blanche sworn in as U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has been sworn in as U.S. Attorney General after a narrow Senate confirmation. He declared the $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund is dead but suggested other compensation methods may be explored. 19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-sworn-in-as-us-attorney-general ### 2026-08-09: Todd Blanche sworn in as Attorney General after narrow Senate vote Todd Blanche has been sworn in as U.S. Attorney General following a narrow 50-49 Senate confirmation vote, overcoming bipartisan concerns regarding the politicization of the Department of Justice. 58 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-confirmed-as-us-attorney-general-5 ### 2026-08-07: Cory Booker blasts Senate as Republicans push Todd Blanche's AG nomination Cory Booker shouted on the Senate Judiciary Committee, condemning Republicans for advancing Todd Blanche’s attorney‑general nomination while accusing them of double standards on the Biden and Trump families. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cory-booker-blasts-senate-as-republicans-push-todd-blanches-ag-nomination ### 2026-08-04: Todd Blanche suffers 20th consecutive court loss in DOJ bid for state voter data Acting AG Todd Blanche faced his 20th straight loss as a judge dismissed the DOJ’s bid for state voter data, ruling the department lacks authority; the defeat came as his nomination advanced in the Senate. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-suffers-20th-consecutive-court-loss-in-doj-bid-for-state-voter-data ### 2026-08-04: Trump administration nominees Adam Candeub and Todd Blanche face Senate opposition Senators questioned Adam Candeub’s past remarks and FCC stance during his DOJ antitrust hearing, while Susan Collins opposes Todd Blanche’s AG nomination over politicization and controversial actions. 25 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/senator-susan-collins-opposes-confirmation-of-todd-blanche-as-attorney-general ### 2026-07-30: U.S. Justice Department submits unredacted Epstein files to Judge Emmet Sullivan The U.S. Justice Department handed unredacted Epstein files, including eight email chains tied to Katie Phang’s lawsuit, to Judge Emmet Sullivan for private review, citing victim and law‑enforcement privacy and 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-justice-department-submits-unredacted-epstein-files-to-judge-emmet-sullivan ### 2026-07-27: Todd Blanche Nomination Faces Senate Scrutiny Over DOJ Subpoenas Senate Democrats demand answers from Todd Blanche on subpoenas to NY Times journalists, questioning Trump’s influence, while a former federal director urges Congress to reject his attorney‑general nomination. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-senate-scrutiny-over-doj-subpoenas-of-journalists ### 2026-07-26: US Congress pushes for fuller Epstein file transparency U.S. lawmakers led by Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna urge the DOJ to release over 3 million unredacted Epstein files, threatening a discharge petition as an audit investigates compliance with the 2025 Epstein File 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-congress-pushes-for-fuller-epstein-file-transparency ### 2026-07-26: U.S. Judge Orders DOJ to Release Unredacted Epstein Records Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered Acting AG Todd Blanche to submit unredacted Epstein emails in Katie Phang's lawsuit, demanding proof for DOJ redactions. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-judge-orders-doj-to-release-unredacted-epstein-records ### 2026-07-20: Todd Blanche's Attorney General nomination challenged over weaponization fund and abortion‑pill policy President Trump’s nominee Todd Blanche faces Senate opposition over the dead anti‑weaponization fund, a contempt case on Epstein files, and a pledge to review the 1873 Comstock Act on mail‑order abortion pills. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-senate-scrutiny-over-defunct-antiweaponization-fund-and-epstein-files-contempt-fi ### 2026-07-17: Leon Black Walks Out of Congressional Interview Over Epstein NDA Queries Leon Black halted a House Oversight interview, refusing to discuss NDAs linked to Jeffrey Epstein, after which the committee issued subpoenas for a deposition and the agreements. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leon-black-walks-out-of-congressional-interview-over-epstein-nda-queries ### 2026-07-17: Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche meets with Jeffrey Epstein survivors, drawing criticism Acting AG Todd Blanche met with Jeffrey Epstein survivors after Senator Tillis made it a confirmation condition; survivors called the session abrasive and unproductive, while partisan commentary linked it to a 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/acting-attorney-general-todd-blanche-meets-with-jeffrey-epstein-survivors-drawing-criticism ### 2026-07-16: Todd Blanche faces Senate scrutiny in AG confirmation hearing Todd Blanche’s AG confirmation hearing saw Senate questioning over DOJ recusal, a disputed anti‑weaponization fund, and his stance on enforcing pro‑life laws and the Comstock Act. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-senate-scrutiny-over-trump-ties-and-doj-recusal-claims ### 2026-07-16: Michael Steele confronts Todd Blanche over 'war' on judges at Senate hearing Former GOP chair Michael Steele accused AG nominee Todd Blanche of a “war” on judges during a Senate hearing, demanding answers as Blanche faces court fallout over a $1.776 billion anti‑weaponization fund. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/michael-steele-confronts-todd-blanche-over-war-on-judges-at-senate-hearing ### 2026-07-15: Thomas Massie introduces sequel bill to strengthen Epstein files disclosure Rep. Thomas Massie introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, aiming to give state AGs standing to sue the DOJ and force release of remaining Epstein documents withheld since the 2025 law. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/thomas-massie-introduces-sequel-bill-to-strengthen-epstein-files-disclosure ### 2026-07-15: Jeffrey Epstein Secured $25 Million Assisting Edmond de Rothschild DOJ Settlement Jeffrey Epstein earned $25 million by advising Edmond de Rothschild on a DOJ tax‑evasion settlement, charging legal penalties and fees, according to disclosed emails. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-received-25-million-for-assisting-edmond-de-rothschilds-doj-settlement ### 2026-07-14: Todd Blanche faces Senate grilling over DOJ fund, crypto unit and Epstein files Todd Blanche, Trump’s AG pick, faced Senate scrutiny over the dead anti‑weaponization fund, the breakup of DOJ’s crypto unit, and Epstein file releases, with GOP support hinging on key Republican votes. 45 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-likely-to-secure-us-attorney-general-confirmation ### 2026-07-12: Todd Blanche faces contempt fine and legal scrutiny over Epstein files and press subpoenas Acting AG Todd Blanche faces a contempt fine for blocking Epstein files, press subpoenas over a Qatar plane story, and a judge’s ruling that a Trump‑backed IRS‑immunity settlement was illegal. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-senate-hearing-amid-court-order-and-pressfreedom-controversy ### 2026-07-12: US Department of Justice faces criticism over handling of Jeffrey Epstein files The US DOJ’s partial release of Epstein files and denial of redaction‑training documents spark legal challenges and criticism over transparency and victim protections. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-department-of-justice-faces-criticism-over-handling-of-jeffrey-epstein-files ### 2026-07-11: Todd Blanche's former colleague decries his transformation ahead of AG confirmation Mimi Rocah, a former colleague, says she is shocked and disgusted by Todd Blanche’s conduct, citing his past reputation versus recent actions like meeting Ghislaine Maxwell, as he prepares for his attorney‑gen. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanches-former-colleague-decries-his-transformation-ahead-of-ag-confirmation ### 2026-07-09: Lesley Groff Accused by Epstein Survivors of Lying to Congress Six Epstein survivors say aide Lesley Groff lied to the House Oversight Committee about never meeting the victims, handling their IDs and paying them cash. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lesley-groff-accused-of-lying-to-us-congress-about-jeffrey-epstein-victims ### 2026-07-08: Epstein files reignite scrutiny of high‑profile figures and practitioner abuse Epstein document releases spur analysis of practitioner abuse and boost search interest in prominent figures like Clinton, Trump, Musk, Gates and Prince Andrew. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/epstein-files-reignite-scrutiny-of-highprofile-figures-and-practitioner-abuse ### 2026-07-08: Todd Blanche’s sneaker dispute sparks tension at Trump‑admin party in Washington At a Washington D.C. Trump‑admin party, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche clashed with former appointee Lindsey Halligan over his sneakers, a moment reported by the Daily Mail. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanches-sneaker-dispute-sparks-tension-at-trumpadmin-party-in-washington ### 2026-07-07: Jeffrey Epstein case draws new scrutiny as DOJ redacts financial files and congressional hearings probe death Surveillance footage and guard misconduct fuel new Congressional hearings on Jeffrey Epstein's death, while the DOJ redacts financial reports tied to his offshore company that moved millions after his arrest. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-case-draws-new-scrutiny-as-doj-redacts-financial-files-and-congressional-hearings-pr ### 2026-07-07: Todd Blanche faces opposition from 1,200 former DOJ staff Over 1,200 former DOJ employees urged the Senate to reject acting AG Todd Blanche, citing attacks on the department’s apolitical workforce, alleged vindictive prosecutions and mass resignations. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-opposition-from-1200-former-doj-staff ### 2026-07-03: US Justice Department Defends Epstein File Redactions and Plans Appeal The US Justice Department rejected a court order to unredact Epstein files, defending the redactions and planning an appeal, while lawmakers and the public demand full disclosure of the high‑profile documents. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-justice-department-defends-epstein-file-redactions-and-plans-appeal ### 2026-07-03: U.S. Justice Department defends withholding additional Epstein files The Justice Department seeks to keep more Epstein investigation files sealed, citing victim privacy and legal exemptions, and asks for a 60‑day extension to appeal a court order. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-justice-department-defends-withholding-additional-epstein-files ### 2026-06-30: Doug Band testifies to House Oversight Committee on Clinton‑Epstein links Doug Band, former Clinton aide, testified before the House Oversight Committee, facing questions about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and retracting his claim that Bill Clinton visited Epstein’s island. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/doug-band-testifies-to-house-oversight-committee-on-clintonepstein-links ### 2026-06-29: Jeffrey Epstein email releases intensify public scrutiny DOJ releases millions of Jeffrey Epstein emails, driving spikes in public searches and the creation of tools like Jmail to parse the archive; high‑profile names and redaction issues dominate discussion. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-email-releases-intensify-public-scrutiny ### 2026-06-26: US Judge Orders DOJ to Release Unredacted Epstein Files Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered the DOJ to release unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files or explain the redactions, demanding interview notes on alleged Trump allegations and a full redaction log. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-judge-orders-doj-to-release-unredacted-epstein-files ### 2026-06-26: Leon Black Testifies Before House Oversight on Epstein Payments Leon Black testified before the House Oversight Committee, admitting $158 M paid to Jeffrey Epstein for tax advice, denied wrongdoing, refused NDA questions and was subpoenaed for further deposition. 26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leon-black-testifies-to-congress-on-170-million-epstein-payments ### 2026-06-26: Bill Gates admits multiple extramarital affairs linked to Jeffrey Epstein Bill Gates told a U.S. congressional panel he had three affairs with women tied to Jeffrey Epstein, acknowledging Epstein’s knowledge but denying any blackmail. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-admits-affairs-with-women-tied-to-jeffrey-epstein ### 2026-06-25: Bill Gates testifies to Congress about possible Jeffrey Epstein blackmail over affairs Bill Gates told the House Oversight Committee that Jeffrey Epstein may have considered blackmailing him over his extramarital affairs, confirming his 2011‑14 ties to Epstein and denying wrongdoing. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-to-congress-about-possible-jeffrey-epstein-blackmail-over-affairs ### 2026-06-24: US Judge Orders DOJ to Release Censored Jeffrey Epstein Files Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered the U.S. Justice Department to release all censored Epstein files, including emails about a “video of torture” and a Trump abuse allegation, by July 2, after a lawsuit by journalist 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-judge-orders-doj-to-release-more-epstein-files ### 2026-06-24: Leon Black and Bill Gates Testify Before U.S. House Oversight Committee on Epstein Links Leon Black and Bill Gates testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee, addressing their financial and personal ties to Jeffrey Epstein amid a wider congressional probe. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leon-black-and-bill-gates-testify-before-us-house-oversight-committee-on-epstein-links ### 2026-06-24: Bill Gates says he may have been near Jeffrey Epstein's victims during congressional testimony Bill Gates testified he never directly interacted with Jeffrey Epstein’s victims but said he might have been near them, describing a strictly professional past relationship with Epstein. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-says-he-may-have-been-near-jeffrey-epsteins-victims-during-congressional-testimony ### 2026-06-24: Bill Gates testifies on alleged Epstein extortion, reveals affairs Bill Gates testified to Congress, admitting affairs with three women and saying Jeffrey Epstein tried to use that information to extort him, but no extortion occurred. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-admits-multiple-affairs-and-ties-to-jeffrey-epstein-in-congressional-testimony ### 2026-06-23: Lesley Groff testifies before US House Oversight Committee, says she never recognized underage victims Lesley Groff, former aide to Jeffrey Epstein, testified before the US House Oversight Committee, denying she ever recognized underage victims and saying no one sounded underage during her 18‑year tenure. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lesley-groff-testifies-before-us-house-oversight-committee-says-she-never-recognized-underage-victim ### 2026-06-23: Bill Gates testifies before US Congress on Jeffrey Epstein ties Bill Gates told the House Oversight Committee his meetings with Jeffrey Epstein were a grave mistake; he denied blackmail but feared Epstein might use his affairs as leverage, admitted three extramarital liais­ 42 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-says-he-may-have-been-near-jeffrey-epsteins-victims-but-had-no-direct-contact ### 2026-06-23: Todd Blanche Faces State Bar Complaint Amid Push for Senate Confirmation State AGs back Todd Blanche’s attorney‑general nomination, citing crime‑fighting record, while a bar complaint by former judges accuses him of ethics violations over a compensation fund, IRS audit shield and JD 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-state-bar-complaint-amid-push-for-senate-confirmation ### 2026-06-18: Jeffrey Epstein death: New York Times investigation points to suicide and jail lapses The New York Times’ investigation, drawing on extensive interviews and records, says Jeffrey Epstein’s death is more likely suicide, exposing repeated suicidal behavior and prison staff’s failure to intervene. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epsteins-cell-death-raises-questions-of-prison-oversight ### 2026-06-16: Todd Blanche nominated as US Attorney General amid sheriff endorsement and special counsel push Sheriffs from 19 western states back Todd Blanche’s US Attorney General nomination, while the Broadview Six push for a special counsel to investigate alleged DOJ misconduct in ICE protest cases. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-nominated-as-us-attorney-general-amid-sheriff-endorsement-and-special-counsel-push ### 2026-06-15: Jeffrey Epstein survivors urge US officials to probe alleged network of powerful men Epstein survivors presented DOJ files to House Oversight Chair James Comer, urging a deeper probe of alleged ties to powerful men, after earlier reports linked the case to a modeling‑industry recruitment chain. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-survivors-urge-us-officials-to-probe-alleged-network-of-powerful-men ### 2026-06-13: Melinda French Gates Says She Recognized Jeffrey Epstein as Evil, Calls for Justice System Reform Melinda French Gates said she instantly sensed Jeffrey Epstein’s evil, urged women to trust instincts, and criticized the justice system while Bill Gates testified before Congress about their ties to Epstein. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/melinda-french-gates-says-she-recognized-jeffrey-epstein-as-evil-calls-for-justice-system-reform ### 2026-06-13: Bill and Melinda French Gates face new scrutiny over Jeffrey Epstein ties Bill Gates testified on his 2011‑2014 contacts with Jeffrey Epstein, saying Epstein tried to blackmail him; Melinda French Gates called Epstein “evil” and criticised the justice system in a Guardian interview. 17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/melinda-french-gates-says-epstein-could-have-been-stopped ### 2026-06-11: Jeffrey Epstein Linked to Bill Gates Testimony and Modeling Industry Exploitation Bill Gates denied any contact with Jeffrey Epstein’s properties and said Epstein tried to blackmail him, while documents show Epstein’s post‑conviction links to the modeling industry that facilitated continued 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-linked-to-bill-gates-testimony-and-modeling-industry-exploitation ### 2026-06-11: Bill Gates Testifies Epstein Attempted Blackmail Over Infidelity Bill Gates told the House Oversight Committee Epstein tried to blackmail him over infidelity, a claim he denied any illegal involvement and called a grave mistake. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-epstein-attempted-blackmail-over-infidelity ### 2026-06-11: Bill Gates testifies before US Congress on Epstein ties Bill Gates testified before the US House Oversight Committee, denying knowledge of Epstein’s crimes, saying Epstein attempted blackmail over his infidelities, and that he cut ties in 2014. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-congress-on-epstein-ties ### 2026-06-11: Bill Gates says Epstein blackmailed him over affairs in US testimony Bill Gates told a US House committee that Jeffrey Epstein blackmailed him using details of his affairs, acknowledging meetings after Epstein’s 2008 conviction and prompting a Gates Foundation review. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-says-epstein-blackmailed-him-over-affairs-in-us-testimony ### 2026-06-11: Todd Blanche faces survivor backlash over DOJ nomination amid Epstein file controversy Todd Blanche, Trump's nominee for U.S. attorney general, faces criticism from Epstein survivors and a NY Times report over his role in handling the Epstein files and a secret White House meeting. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-faces-survivor-backlash-over-doj-nomination-amid-epstein-file-controversy ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates testifies before US Congress on Jeffrey Epstein ties Bill Gates testified before a US House committee, denying criminal ties to Jeffrey Epstein, stating he never visited Epstein’s properties and alleging Epstein tried to blackmail him over personal affairs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-congress-on-jeffrey-epstein-ties ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates says Jeffrey Epstein tried to blackmail him over infidelities Bill Gates told Congress Epstein tried to blackmail him over his affairs, denied illegal activity, and said their contact ended in 2014. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-says-jeffrey-epstein-tried-to-blackmail-him-over-infidelities ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates Testifies Before US Congress on Jeffrey Epstein Ties Bill Gates testified before a US House committee, denying involvement in Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, calling his contacts a “huge mistake,” and pledging to help deliver justice to victims. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-congress-on-jeffrey-epstein-ties-1 ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates calls meeting with Jeffrey Epstein a grave error in congressional testimony Bill Gates told a U.S. congressional panel his 2011‑2014 meetings with Jeffrey Epstein were a grave error; he denied seeing illegal acts, said Epstein tried to blackmail him over affairs, and cut ties in 2014. 34 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-house-committee-says-epstein-tried-to-blackmail-him ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates testifies before US House committee on Epstein abuse scandal Bill Gates testified before a US House committee, denied wrongdoing in the Epstein case, said Epstein tried to blackmail him over affairs, and expressed regret for meeting him. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-house-epstein-committee-pledges-help-for-victims ### 2026-06-10: Bill Gates testifies before US House committee, says meetings with Jeffrey Epstein were a mistake Bill Gates testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee, saying his meetings with Jeffrey Epstein were a serious error, he never victimized anyone, and Epstein tried to exploit personal information about 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-testifies-before-us-house-committee-says-meetings-with-jeffrey-epstein-were-a-mistake ### 2026-06-08: Todd Blanche nominated as US Attorney General by Trump Donald Trump nominated former personal lawyer Todd Blanche as permanent US Attorney General; his interim tenure drew criticism over a $1.8 billion compensation fund and handling of Epstein files, and Senate vet 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-nominated-as-us-attorney-general-by-trump ### 2026-06-08: Bill Gates testifies before US House Oversight Committee on Jeffrey Epstein ties Bill Gates testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee, denying knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, expressing regret over their meetings (2011‑2014), and noting an external review of the Gates Found 37 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-gates-to-testify-before-us-house-oversight-on-epstein-connections ### 2026-06-08: Jeffrey Epstein victims face renewed harassment after DOJ file release DOJ’s faulty release of Epstein files exposed victims’ identities, sparking threats, stalking and lawsuits alleging privacy violations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-victims-face-renewed-harassment-after-doj-file-release ### 2026-06-08: Trump nominates former personal lawyer Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General Donald Trump nominated former personal lawyer Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General, sparking a likely Senate showdown amid criticism over a scrapped $1.8 bn fund and his handling of Epstein files. 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanche-nominated-attorney-general-amid-epstein-coverup ### 2026-06-08: Todd Blanche’s Attorney General Nomination Draws Scrutiny Over Epstein File Handling Todd Blanche’s AG nomination faces Senate scrutiny over his role in the Trump administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and other high‑profile investigations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/todd-blanches-attorney-general-nomination-draws-scrutiny-over-epstein-file-handling ### 2026-06-07: US House Oversight Committee hears from Epstein’s former assistants Former Epstein aides Sarah Kellen and Lesley Groff testified before the US House Oversight Committee, accusing Ghislaine Maxwell of enabling Epstein’s abuse and highlighting Groff’s central role in his affairs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-house-oversight-committee-hears-from-epsteins-former-assistants ### 2026-06-04: Pam Bondi says Todd Blanche oversaw release of Epstein files Pam Bondi testified that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, prompting House Oversight scrutiny and raising questions about her U.S. Attorney General nomination. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pam-bondi-says-todd-blanche-oversaw-release-of-epstein-files ### 2026-06-04: Pam Bondi blames Acting AG Todd Blanche for mishandling Epstein files Pam Bondi accused Acting AG Todd Blanche of mishandling the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, prompting Democrats to seek a subpoena and intensifying DOJ scrutiny. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pam-bondi-blames-acting-ag-todd-blanche-for-mishandling-epstein-files ### 2026-05-31: Jes Staley to Testify Before US Congress on Jeffrey Epstein Ties Former Barclays CEO Jes Staley will testify before the US House Oversight Committee about his past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, amid ongoing scrutiny of his UK finance‑sector ban and prior JPMorgan‑Epsten 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jes-staley-to-testify-before-us-congress-on-jeffrey-epstein-ties ### 2026-05-30: US Congress probes Jeffrey Epstein case as survivors push for accountability US Congress conducts bipartisan hearings on Jeffrey Epstein, with survivors demanding investigations and accountability, while European officials resign over ties. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-congress-probes-jeffrey-epstein-case-amid-survivor-demands ### 2026-05-29: Pam Bondi Defends DOJ’s Epstein Files Release Amid Congressional Criticism Pam Bondi testified that the DOJ fulfilled the Epstein Files Transparency Act, but Democrats and a former DOJ official say she avoided responsibility and obstructed transparency. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pam-bondi-defends-dojs-epstein-files-release-amid-congressional-criticism ### 2026-05-21: Sarah Kellen testifies to House Oversight Committee on years of abuse by Jeffrey Epstein Sarah Kellen says Jeffrey Epstein sexually and psychologically abused her for years, detailing rape, control, and lack of law‑enforcement support. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sarah-kellen-testifies-to-house-oversight-committee-on-years-of-abuse-by-jeffrey-epstein ### 2026-05-18: House Oversight Committee Questions Guard Who Says She Was Last Person to See Jeffrey Epstein Alive House Oversight Committee questioned guard Tova Noel, who says she was the last to see Jeffrey Epstein alive, amid claims of special treatment. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/house-oversight-committee-questions-guard-who-says-she-was-last-person-to-see-jeffrey-epstein-alive ### 2026-05-13: US Justice Department releases millions of Epstein documents US Justice Dept unveils over 3 million Epstein files, exposing a global sex‑trafficking network linked to top politicians. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-justice-department-releases-millions-of-epstein-documents ### 2026-05-12: Jeffrey Epstein victim testifies about abuse while on house arrest at Florida hearing Former Epstein model Roza testified in Florida that he abused her while on house arrest and condemned the DOJ’s mishandling of the Epstein files. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jeffrey-epstein-victim-roza-testifies-before-us-house-oversight-committee-on-file-mishandling ### 2026-05-03: Pam Bondi set to be represented by DOJ official in forthcoming Epstein interview DOJ official to represent former Florida AG Pam Bondi in upcoming Epstein interview, sparking ethics concerns. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pam-bondi-set-to-be-represented-by-doj-official-in-forthcoming-epstein-interview ### 2026-04-29: Pam Bondi to testify in House Epstein probe next month Former Florida AG Pam Bondi to testify in House Oversight Epstein probe next month; contempt resolution filed. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pam-bondi-to-testify-in-house-epstein-probe-next-month ### 2026-04-28: US GAO to probe DOJ handling of Epstein files under congressional oversight GAO to probe DOJ handling of Epstein files amid bipartisan concerns over exposing victims' information. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-gao-to-probe-doj-handling-of-epstein-files-under-congressional-oversight --- Cite as: DOJ leadership and independence under Attorney General Todd_. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/justice-department-turmoil-firings-investigations-and-a-staffing-crunch-in-spring-2026