Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche refused to apologize for the Department of Justice’s release of personal information belonging to Jeffrey Epstein victims [1].
The refusal underscores a growing conflict between the DOJ and lawmakers over the privacy of survivors. The release of these files allegedly violated the Epstein Files Transparency Act, leading to legal challenges and public outcry regarding the exposure of victim identities [5].
During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on May 19, 2026 [1], Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) questioned Blanche about the agency's handling of the sensitive records. Murray focused on the emotional and psychological impact on the survivors whose identities were revealed to the public.
"I just want to hear you say, 'I apologize to those victims,'" Murray said [3].
Blanche did not grant the request. "I’m not going to apologize," Blanche said [2].
The hearing on Capitol Hill also touched upon the department's fiscal priorities. Blanche discussed a newly announced Anti-Weaponization Fund, which is valued at approximately $1.8 billion [6].
The tension in the room reflected a broader debate over the balance between government transparency and the protection of individuals harmed by sexual assault. Lawmakers have argued that the DOJ failed in its duty to redact the files properly before their release, while the department has maintained its current course of action.
“"I just want to hear you say, 'I apologize to those victims.'"”
The refusal by the Acting Attorney General to apologize signals a hardline stance by the DOJ regarding its administrative handling of the Epstein files. By declining to acknowledge a mistake, the department may be attempting to limit legal liability in ongoing lawsuits, such as those filed by victims over privacy breaches, while simultaneously prioritizing a new $1.8 billion fund aimed at combating the perceived weaponization of government agencies.
