Letters from an American January 15, 2026
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Jan 16, 2026 Key topics include the minimal release of Epstein files despite new legislation, and the contentious political dynamics surrounding subpoenas involving the Clintons. The podcast discusses a tragic ICE shooting, contrasting government claims about gang threats with reality. It covers recent protests in Minnesota and tensions from an agent's shooting. Trump's threat to invoke the Insurrection Act raises legal questions, while his remarks on elections spark debate. Additionally, a significant Venezuelan oil sale brings up legal concerns.
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Epstein Files Largely Withheld
- The Department of Justice has released under 1% of the Epstein files despite the Epstein Files Transparency Act requiring full release by Dec 19.
- Heather Cox Richardson notes partisan plays shifting blame to the Clintons while DOJ compliance remains minimal.
Public Backlash Over ICE Violence
- ICE agents shot and killed Renee Good and administration figures labeled her and her wife domestic terrorists, fueling public backlash.
- Polling shows more Americans disapprove of the shooting and ICE's actions, and support for ICE abolition rises by about eight points.
Gang Threat Was Overstated
- U.S. intelligence described Trenda Aragua as causing fragmented, low-level crime, not a structured terrorist threat.
- Wired-obtained records and official doubts undercut the administration's narrative justifying violent immigration enforcement.