Massie: DOJ ‘hiding behind’ victim protection in Epstein controversy
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) on Sunday accused the Department of Justice (DOJ) of “hiding behind” the argument of protecting victims as it faces calls to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
“The Department of Justice says they will not be releasing further Epstein material in order to protect what they say is more than 1,000 victims, many of whom were underage,” NBC News’s Kristen Welker said during an interview with Massie Sunday on “Meet the Press.”
“I want to read you a little bit of a DOJ memo which writes, quote, ‘Sensitive information relating to these victims is intertwined throughout the materials. One of our highest priorities is combatting child exploitation and bringing justice to victims. Perpetuating unfounded theories about Epstein serves neither one of those ends.’ What is your response to the concern that releasing these files could ultimately hurt the victims, Congressman Massie?” Welker asked.
“Well, look, that’s a straw man. Ro and I carefully crafted this legislation so that the victims’ names will be redacted and that no child pornography will be released. So, they’re hiding behind that,” Massie responded, referring to an effort he and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) are undertaking to force a vote in Congress on releasing Epstein-linked files.
“But we’re trying to get justice for the victims and transparency for America,” the Kentucky Republican added in an interview highlighted by Mediaite. “And so, you know, we’ve redacted things before. We don’t want to hurt the victims. We’re doing this for the victims.”
President Trump and his administration have been facing heavy criticism over their handling of information related to Epstein in recent weeks, with the controversy also causing chaos in Congress.
Last Wednesday, the House broke for its weeks-long August recess, shutting down a day earlier than planned as the Epstein controversy brought the chamber to a standstill.
The Hill has reached out to the Justice Department for comment on Massie’s remarks.