House votes overwhelmingly to force DOJ to release Jeffrey Epstein files

U.S. Virgin Islands Delegate Stacey Plaskett defended her texting with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating that as a prosecutor, gathering information from various sources is essential. This defense comes amid scrutiny over her communications with Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019, which has sparked controversy and allegations of impropriety.

Former Harvard President Larry Summers announced he will continue teaching despite stepping back from public activities following the revelation of extensive communications with Jeffrey Epstein. Summers expressed his commitment to providing important instruction to his economics class amid the backlash.

The US Attorney General, Pam Bondi, announced that the Justice Department will release files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days, following the US Senate's passage of a bill mandating the release. However, there may be material withheld that could impact an ongoing investigation ordered by Donald Trump. As of now, Trump has not scheduled time to sign the bill.

A group of senators is urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate the potential sale of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), which owns major brands such as HBO, Turner Sports, and CNN. The senators, led by Elizabeth Warren, expressed concerns regarding the implications of the sale on market competition and consumer choice. They have addressed their concerns to DOJ Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater, who specializes in antitrust matters.

Democratic Delegate Stacey Plaskett stated that she was gathering information from Jeffrey Epstein when she texted him during a congressional hearing in 2019. This revelation has sparked controversy and scrutiny regarding the appropriateness of her communications with Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett accused Lee Zeldin, the Trump EPA Administrator, of accepting donations from an individual named Jeffrey Epstein. However, records indicate that the Epstein in question is not the notorious financier and convicted sex offender, leading to a clarification from Zeldin's camp.

Former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson criticized President Trump for his treatment of female reporters, particularly during incidents where he reacted negatively to questions about his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Carlson described Trump's behavior as 'despicable' in a post on social media, highlighting a pattern of disrespect towards women in journalism.

A Republican effort to censure Democratic Delegate Stacey Plaskett for her text exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing failed on the House floor. The motion, which aimed to formally reprimand Plaskett and remove her from the House intelligence committee, was rejected by a vote of 209 to 214. This incident has sparked accusations of a deal among party leaders to shield members from ethics controversies.