Former Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House oversight and reform committee, distancing herself from the controversial release of Jeffrey Epstein files. She stated that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to replace her, was 'in charge' of the Justice Department's handling of the case. Bondi also expressed uncertainty about how much Trump knew about Epstein's crimes before they became public.
Bondi's Testimony
In her opening statement, Bondi defended the department's actions under her leadership, saying she did not 'lead every aspect' of the effort. She acknowledged 'redaction errors' but emphasized the department's commitment to 'accountability and transparency.' Blanche, if confirmed, would require Senate approval.
Scrutiny of Epstein File Release
Lawmakers and abuse survivors criticized the department for redactions and disclosure of sensitive information. Bondi's testimony sought to shift responsibility to Blanche, who oversaw the process.
House Passes Ukraine Aid Bill
The House passed legislation providing over $1 billion in security and reconstruction aid to Ukraine, plus $8 billion in loans. The bill, sponsored by Representative Gregory Meeks, aims to cement US support despite Republican objections. Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for direct talks with Vladimir Putin, noting shifting US priorities.
Trump Ally Bill Pulte to Investigate 'Rigged Elections'
Trump suggested Bill Pulte, a loyalist without intelligence experience, would investigate 'rigged elections' as acting director of national intelligence. Trump made unfounded claims about Democratic cheating in California primaries, but the US attorney's office declined to comment.
Other News
Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic effort to stop Trump from creating a $1.8 billion fund for allies. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the administration would not proceed with the fund. The Justice Department's civil rights division launched investigations into 15 medical schools over alleged race discrimination in admissions. Argentina reacted furiously after two teenage girls were murdered, highlighting the femicide crisis under President Javier Milei.
US Consumer Anger
Eighty percent of Americans faced service or product problems in 2025, costing households $165 billion annually in the 'annoyance economy,' according to the Groundwork Collaborative.
Culture Pick: 'Affection' Review
BT Meza's directorial debut 'Affection' is a creepy thriller about memory loss, starring Jessica Rothe. Critics praise it as a better alternative to Amazon's He-Man reboot.
AI Controversy
A college professor admitted using AI to write an opinion piece against AI use in academia, leading to its removal by the Sydney Morning Herald.
Punk's 50th Anniversary
Alexis Petridis explores how punk upended pop culture when the Sex Pistols played their first Manchester gig 50 years ago.
Climate Check: Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke has reversed US progress on ozone air quality, causing tens of thousands of premature deaths and greater impacts than previously known.
Last Thing: Mule Deer Use Wildlife Bridge
Mule deer have already crossed an unfinished $20 million wildlife bridge in California, marking an early success for the state's first major highway crossing for animals.
