Oversight Democrats demand Comer arrange interviews with Blanche, Patel in Epstein probe

House Oversight Committee Democrats are calling for Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel to testify immediately in the panel’s investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Ranking Member Robert Garcia sent a letter to Committee Chairman James Comer requesting videotaped transcribed interviews with Blanche and Patel, citing concerns over their handling of the Epstein files.

The committee, which is currently controlled by the GOP, has not previously recorded transcribed interviews, only depositions. Garcia emphasized the need for the testimony of Blanche and Patel, stating that the committee cannot continue its investigation credibly without their input.

During a closed-door interview with former Attorney General Pam Bondi, it became apparent that Blanche and Patel played significant roles in the handling of the Epstein files. Bondi revealed that Blanche was responsible for overseeing the release of millions of Epstein files.

Democrats are seeking answers directly from Blanche and Patel, accusing them of being involved in covering up the Epstein files and mishandling their release, which re-victimized survivors and undermined the credibility of the Justice Department.

Bondi’s testimony implicated Blanche in the DOJ’s actions related to the Epstein files, with Bondi opposing a pardon for convicted co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell and expressing ignorance of her prison transfer until after it occurred.

Blanche is scheduled to testify before a House appropriations subcommittee, and his testimony could be contentious following Bondi’s statements regarding his involvement in the Epstein Transparency Act.

Democrats are also keen to hear from Patel, who was mentioned by Bondi as overseeing the release of the Epstein files. Bondi raised concerns about the FBI withholding information from the DOJ, implicating Patel in the process.

Committee Chairman Comer acknowledged the failures surrounding the Epstein case, spanning multiple presidential administrations, and emphasized the seriousness with which the investigation is being conducted. The government’s failure to protect survivors of Epstein’s abuse is a central focus of the committee’s inquiry.