FBI Director Kash Patel publicly addressed recent internal tensions regarding the handling of documents related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. On Saturday, Patel rejected claims of internal conflict between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI over the decision not to release additional files, labeling such narratives as “conspiracy theories.” His comments follow reports indicating that his deputy director, Dan Bongino, may resign amid disagreements with Attorney General Pam Bondi about the agency’s approach to Epstein-related documentation.
In a post on X, Patel asserted that the “conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been.” He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Trump administration, stating, “It’s an honor to serve the President of the United States @realDonaldTrump — and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.” This declaration coincides with a DOJ memo released earlier that week, which announced the agency would not disclose further documents regarding Epstein and declared that no “client list” exists.
The DOJ’s memo has faced backlash from conservative commentators, many of whom have called for Bondi’s resignation. Among them, right-wing commentator Laura Loomer claimed that Patel and Bongino were “LIVID” with Bondi over her perceived lack of transparency regarding Epstein’s files. Reports from CNN indicate that Patel participated in a contentious meeting with Bongino and Bondi concerning the handling of the Epstein documents. Multiple sources suggest that Bongino is contemplating resignation due to this internal strife.
Patel’s remark about “conspiracy theories” raises questions about whether he was referring to the alleged infighting or the conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein himself. Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General, has also denied reports of discord, asserting that Patel and Bongino approved the memo together, stating, “The suggestion by anyone that there was any daylight between the FBI and DOJ leadership on this memo’s composition and release is patently false.”
The uncertainty surrounding Bongino’s potential resignation continues, as sources indicate he has yet to make a final decision. Additionally, the fate of Bondi remains uncertain, especially as Trump’s support base expresses discontent with her handling of the Epstein case.
President Donald Trump, who has personal ties to Epstein but has faced no allegations of wrongdoing, has not signaled an intention to dismiss Bondi. In a recent Cabinet meeting, he dismissed inquiries about the Epstein files, finding it “unbelievable” that such questions arose during discussions of pressing national issues.
In an effort to regain support from the far-right, Bondi announced on Saturday that the DOJ would drop charges against a plastic surgeon accused of fraudulent activity related to COVID-19 vaccines. She specifically praised Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene for her advocacy for the doctor, stating that the dismissal “would not have been possible” without Greene’s efforts.
Greene has also criticized the DOJ’s memo concerning Epstein, alleging that documents are being suppressed, and she continues to demand the release of a supposed “client list.” In a post on social media, she called for the documents’ disclosure, urging, “RELEASE THE EPSTEIN CLIENT LIST!!!!”
Prior to his appointment, Patel was a vocal advocate for the public release of Epstein-related documents. In a podcast from December 2023, he claimed that the Biden administration was withholding information due to the identities of individuals potentially implicated. He stated, “You don’t think that Bill Gates is lobbying Congress night and day to prevent the disclosure of that list?” Patel has insisted on the necessity of transparency regarding Epstein’s connections.
In contrast to his earlier rhetoric, Patel and Bongino have publicly dismissed the notion that Epstein was murdered while in custody, asserting that he died by suicide. Patel explained his perspective on the matter, stating, “Listen, they have a right to their opinion… but you know a suicide when you see one, and that’s what that was.”
Despite advocating for the release of Epstein-related documents, Patel has acknowledged the challenges involved, stating in May, “We are diligently working on that,” emphasizing the time required to process years of investigations.
Epstein’s alleged crimes, which involved the abuse of over 100 women from 2002 to 2018, have drawn extensive scrutiny. His connections to high-profile individuals, including Trump, former President Bill Clinton, and Prince Andrew, have fueled public interest in the case. Many are calling for the release of documents that may reveal Epstein’s connections, despite no evidence confirming the existence of a “client list.”
The handling of Epstein-related documents has been a point of contention for the Trump administration, which initially promised transparency. However, the rollout has faced criticism, with Bondi releasing previously available information and providing no clear timeline for the release of new documents. Reports indicate that FBI officials were directed to prioritize processing Epstein documents in March, yet frustration continues to mount among those seeking accountability and clarity in this high-profile case.
