Bondi Announces Inquiry into Trump Adversaries and Epstein Connections
This past Friday, the Attorney General appointed Jay Clayton to lead an investigation into political adversaries of Donald Trump and their relationships with the late financier. This decision came just after the president directed her to initiate the investigation.
During an announcement, Bondi highlighted Jay Clayton as “among the nation’s top prosecutors”. She remarked, “The department will handle this matter promptly and thoroughly to provide clarity for citizens.”
This action contrasts with a July memo from federal authorities which stated that documents related to Epstein did not warrant additional investigations. As per the document, investigators “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties”
The President Calls for Focus on Political Opponents in Epstein Matter
The announcement comes as growing pressure from the president on congressional Republicans to oppose the public disclosure of Epstein-related documents ahead of an upcoming House vote in the coming days. Several lawmakers are anticipated to back the release.
Newly public emails from Epstein have highlighted the president’s previous connections with the sex trafficker, including information that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.
On Friday, Trump declared he would ask the DOJ to investigate Epstein’s ties with Democrats, including Bill Clinton, Larry Summers and Reid Hoffman. Paradoxically, Trump also described the “Epstein hoax” as a “deception”.
Additional Updates from the Day
- The President announced he would take legal action against the British broadcaster, despite a formal apology from the media outlet. Trump said the lawsuit could seek between a billion and $5bn.
- Jeffrey Epstein reportedly guided Steve Bannon during a pro-Trump effort to support Trump’s policies. Text messages released show Epstein’s involvement in advising the influencer.
- US military are developing plans for a partitioned Gaza, with a secure area under international and Israeli control and a restricted section unreconstructed.
- Georgia prosecutor have reopened the sole ongoing legal case against the President after naming a new lead prosecutor.
- Trump reversed trade measures by reducing taxes on imported goods like various food items to address inflation concerns.
- US and Switzerland reached a deal to lower import taxes on Swiss goods from 39% to 15%.
Other notable events featured appeals to safeguard public lands, criticism of an monitoring group, and a court approval for a settlement in the OxyContin lawsuit.
