Vice President JD Vance has acknowledged that the Trump administration mishandled communications surrounding the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files. In a podcast interview with Joe Rogan released Wednesday, Vance stated that the administration 'absolutely screwed up the comms of the Epstein files,' though he denied any malicious intent behind the missteps.
Vance specifically pointed to former Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had claimed an alleged 'client list' of Epstein's was 'sitting on my desk right now.' The Justice Department under Bondi also distributed binders labeled 'The Epstein files: Phase 1' and 'Declassified' to conservative commentators and influencers. Vance defended Bondi, stating he did not believe she acted maliciously but rather overstated what the administration possessed in response to political pressure.
The controversy over the Epstein files has persisted for months, with lawmakers eventually passing a measure to compel the release of government-held documents. The Justice Department began releasing these files in late December, including photos, call logs, grand jury testimony, and interview transcripts. Vance suggested the administration should have released the files more quickly, though he acknowledged the need for redactions to protect victims.
Critics have accused the administration of failing to meet early promises of transparency, while supporters argue the delays were necessary for thorough review. Vance also implied Epstein had connections to U.S. and Israeli intelligence, though such claims remain speculative.