Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has joined forces with Democratic members of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee to demand that former Attorney General Pam Bondi comply with a subpoena to testify about the Jeffrey Epstein files. In a show of bipartisanship, Mace has called for Bondi to be held in contempt if she fails to appear before the committee.
The Justice Department informed House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) on Wednesday that Bondi “would be a no-show” at the scheduled hearing. This decision has caused an uproar among both Democrats and Republicans, who are seeking answers from Bondi about her handling of the Epstein case during her tenure as Florida’s attorney general.
Epstein, a convicted sex offender and financier, died by apparent suicide while in federal custody in August 2019. His death sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the handling of his case, which involved a controversial plea deal that allowed him to avoid federal prosecution for sex trafficking charges.
Since then, there have been numerous investigations into Epstein’s activities, including a probe by the House Oversight Committee. Bondi’s testimony was sought in relation to a lawsuit filed by an alleged victim of Epstein, who claims that the former attorney general chose not to prosecute Epstein despite having evidence against him.
In a statement, Rep. Mace emphasized the importance of Bondi’s testimony in shedding light on the Epstein case. “It is imperative that we hear from Pam Bondi and get a full understanding of her actions during her time as Florida’s attorney general,” Mace said. “The American people deserve answers and accountability for the mishandling of the Epstein case, and Bondi’s testimony is a crucial part of that process.”
Mace also stressed the nonpartisan nature of this investigation, stating that “this is not a Republican or Democratic issue, this is an issue of justice and protecting victims of sexual abuse.” She further added that “it is our duty as members of Congress to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable.”
The push to hold Bondi in contempt if she fails to comply with the subpoena has gained support from both sides of the aisle. Democratic members of the committee have also expressed their frustration and disappointment at Bondi’s decision not to testify. Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), the chairwoman of the committee, stated that “if Bondi refuses to comply with the subpoena, she should face consequences for her actions.”
Bondi’s absence at the hearing has also drawn criticism from victim rights groups and advocates. They argue that her testimony is crucial in understanding the mishandling of the Epstein case and ensuring that similar situations are not repeated in the future.
Despite Bondi’s apparent refusal to testify, Mace and other members of the committee remain determined to hold her accountable. “We will not let this go,” Mace stated. “The American people deserve the truth, and we are committed to getting it.”
In conclusion, the call for former Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify before the House Oversight Committee about the Jeffrey Epstein files has become a bipartisan effort. Rep. Nancy Mace, along with her Democratic colleagues, is urging Bondi to comply with the subpoena. The American people deserve answers and accountability, and it is the duty of Congress to ensure justice is served in the Epstein case. Bondi’s testimony is a crucial step in this process, and it is imperative that she fulfills her obligation to the American people.
