Democracy Now! Audio

Democracy Now! 2025-12-24 Wednesday

Dec 24, 2025
Vicki Ward, an investigative journalist and host of Chasing Ghislaine, discusses the chaotic rollout of new Epstein files, highlighting failures in transparency about survivor support. Jeanette Vizguerra, an immigrant rights activist recently freed from ICE detention, shares her emotional journey and the fight for justice amid ongoing advocacy challenges. Leila Haddad, a Palestinian journalist, draws attention to the detention of activist Laka Kordia, urging immediate action for her release while exposing harsh detention conditions.
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ADVICE

Use Congressional Oversight Now

  • Congress should use its oversight tools to compel full compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Vicki Ward and survivors urge hearings and potential contempt proceedings for officials like Pam Bondi.
ANECDOTE

Maria Farmer's 1996 Complaint

  • Vicki Ward recounts Maria Farmer's 1996 report of abuse and a lockbox of nude photos she handed to the FBI and Vanity Fair. Ward says her reporting exposed the Farmer sisters to Ghislaine Maxwell and led to editorial interference at Vanity Fair.
INSIGHT

FBI Reactive, Not Proactive

  • The FBI repeatedly appears to have followed press reporting rather than leading investigations into Epstein. Vicki Ward frames the bureau as reactive, waiting for journalistic breadcrumbs like the Miami Herald stories.
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