Lawmakers press FBI director Patel on Epstein investigation files

In the U.S., FBI Director Kash Patel faced a second day of questioning by U.S. lawmakers, defending his handling of investigative files on Jeffrey Epstein amid claims—by both Democratic and one Republican lawmaker—that the FBI is shielding information related to the late financier and sex offender. Patel was grilled by the House Judiciary Committee for the second day in a row, with a major focus once again on the release of all files related to accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Patel offered a range of explanations for what critics are calling an about-face by the Trump administration on releasing material related to the Epstein investigations. He argued that court orders prevented the release of some evidence, and that in other areas, the FBI had only limited material in its possession. Tensions rose when Democratic Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal clashed with Patel in what escalated into a shouting match. Meanwhile, Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee urged the Trump administration to release all Epstein-related files.

During the hearing, Patel said he would investigate the release of a letter allegedly from Donald Trump found in a “birthday book” belonging to Jeffrey Epstein. Representative Jim Jordan praised Patel, as Republican lawmakers asked him to elaborate on the successes he’s previously highlighted during his tenure. Lawmakers also raised questions about the ongoing investigation into the murder of Charlie Kirk during the hearing.