The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: The Epstein Files and the Politicization of the Justice Department
Nov 18, 2025
Michael Feinberg, a former FBI official, and Eric Columbus, a legal expert and senior editor, delve into the DOJ's contentious review of the Jeffrey Epstein files. They discuss the political ramifications of this unusual review, Congress's oversight efforts, and proposed legislation to force disclosures. Feinberg clarifies what documents might be released and their limitations, while Columbus highlights the political maneuvering surrounding the Epstein disclosure bill. The conversation raises questions about ongoing investigations and potential partisan motivations within the justice system.
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Performative Review Yielded Little New
- The Trump campaign and some appointees promised a full public reckoning on Epstein but delivered minimal new disclosures.
- That performative review produced binders shown to allies but not the expected revelations.
Unusual In-House Reopening Raises Red Flags
- The DOJ's in-house hybrid review of a closed case is highly abnormal compared with typical OIG reviews.
- Such internal reopenings risk politicizing investigations and flout usual oversight norms.
Many Files Are Releasable But Heavily Restricted
- Not all investigative file material is grand-jury-protected; many documents can be releasable.
- But protections for victims, minors, and unindicted persons create substantial non-disclosure barriers.