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Trump-Epstein files release fight
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Judge Emmet Sullivan threatens contempt over DOJ's Epstein files redactions. The fight tests transparency and Trump's compliance with a law he signed.
Background
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed by Trump in 2025, requires broad public release of records related to Jeffrey Epstein. Journalist Katie Phang sued the DOJ in April, alleging noncompliance. In June, Judge Sullivan ruled the DOJ conceded violation, and in August he pressed for explanations, warning of contempt.
How it unfolded
- 2025Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law after Congress passed it with bipartisan support.
- Jan 2026DOJ released thousands of Epstein files, but some were redacted or withheld.
- Apr 2026Journalist Katie Phang sued Attorney General Todd Blanche, alleging violations of the Act.
- Jun 25, 2026Judge Emmet Sullivan ruled the DOJ conceded violation and ordered explanations.
- Aug 13, 2026Sullivan held a hearing, pressing DOJ lawyers and warning of contempt.
- Aug 14, 2026Sullivan said contempt was 'not a threat. It's a promise.'
Who’s saying what
- Judge
- Judge Sullivan warned the DOJ that contempt proceedings are a promise if compliance isn't met.
- Plaintiff
- Katie Phang's lawyers argue the DOJ is delaying and lacks legal basis for withholding.
- DOJ
- The DOJ argues Phang lacks standing and that redactions are justified to protect victims.
Still unverified
Allegations against Trump in FBI notes are uncorroborated and denied by Trump.