**Trump Administration Seeks Release of Epstein Grand Jury Transcripts**
The Trump administration has requested a federal court to unseal grand jury transcripts connected to the case of the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, amid growing criticism that officials are withholding crucial documents. On Friday, Justice Department attorneys filed the request in a Manhattan federal court, emphasizing the importance of transparency for the American public. They argued that due to the significant public interest surrounding the Epstein investigations, the transcripts should be made available.
This move follows a two-page memo released in early July, which stated that no further information could be disclosed. Earlier this year, Attorney General Pam Bondi mentioned in a Fox News interview that a list of Epstein’s clients was under her review, later clarifying that she was referring to the broader Epstein files. This exchange has intensified scrutiny on President Donald Trump and several of his senior aides.
On Thursday, Trump authorized the Justice Department to pursue the release of grand jury testimony related to Epstein’s prosecution, following a Wall Street Journal report alleging that he had sent a suggestive birthday letter to Epstein. Trump labeled the letter as “FAKE” in a social media post and threatened legal action. Subsequently, he filed a libel lawsuit against Dow Jones & Co., News Corp., and Rupert Murdoch in federal court in Florida.
Epstein, who pleaded guilty in 2008 to charges in Florida, including the procurement of minors for prostitution, died in a Manhattan jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges involving underage girls. Both a medical examiner and an FBI investigation concluded that Epstein’s death was a suicide. A memo released by the Justice Department and FBI earlier this month confirmed this finding and stated that no evidence of a “client list” or blackmail operation involving high-profile individuals was uncovered. The document also noted that surveillance footage verified Epstein was secured in his cell, with no unauthorized access to his housing unit at the time of his death.
**FAQ**
**Q: What prompted the Trump administration to seek the release of Epstein’s grand jury transcripts?**
A: The request was made in response to public criticism regarding the lack of transparency and the perceived withholding of important documents related to the Epstein investigations.
