Fact Check: "The FBI and DOJ leadership had no disagreement over the Epstein files memo."
What We Know
Recent developments surrounding the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein have revealed significant discrepancies between statements made by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and those previously made by Attorney General Pam Bondi. A memo released by the DOJ states that there was no evidence of a "client list" associated with Epstein, contradicting earlier claims made by Bondi, who suggested that such a list existed and was under review (DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files). This memo was part of a broader review conducted by the DOJ and FBI, which included extensive searches of their files related to Epstein (FBI Memo, July 2025).
The memo explicitly states that the investigation found no credible evidence that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals, which further undermines Bondi's earlier assertions (DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files). The findings have sparked backlash and raised questions about the transparency and accuracy of the DOJ's communications regarding the Epstein case (Epstein files fallout: FBI's Dan Bongino clashes with AG).
Analysis
The claim that there was no disagreement between FBI and DOJ leadership regarding the Epstein files memo is misleading. The DOJ memo directly contradicts statements made by Attorney General Pam Bondi, indicating a clear disconnect between the two entities. Bondi's previous comments suggested the existence of a client list, which the DOJ memo explicitly denies (DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files; DOJ says no evidence Jeffrey Epstein had a ‘client list’ or ...).
The credibility of the DOJ memo is bolstered by its comprehensive nature, detailing the methods used in the investigation, including digital searches and physical file reviews (FBI Memo, July 2025). However, the memo's unsigned status raises questions about accountability and the potential for internal disagreements within the DOJ and FBI (DOJ official defends handling of Epstein memo).
Furthermore, the backlash against Bondi suggests that there is significant frustration among Trump's advisers regarding her handling of the Epstein case, indicating that there may indeed be discord between the DOJ and FBI on how the investigation has been communicated to the public (Epstein files: Annoyance at Bondi's handling of case grows).
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The assertion that the FBI and DOJ leadership had no disagreement over the Epstein files memo is inaccurate. The DOJ memo contradicts prior statements made by Attorney General Pam Bondi, highlighting a clear disagreement between the two agencies regarding the existence of a client list and the nature of Epstein's activities. This discrepancy indicates a lack of consensus and raises concerns about the transparency and reliability of the information being provided to the public.
Sources
- FBI Memo, July 2025
- DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files
- Epstein files fallout: FBI's Dan Bongino clashes with AG ...
- Trump's DOJ responds to "daylight" with FBI regarding Epstein ...
- DOJ official defends handling of Epstein memo
- Jeffrey Epstein Case: DOJ Memo Sparks Backlash
- DOJ says no evidence Jeffrey Epstein had a ‘client list’ or ...
- Epstein files: Annoyance at Bondi's handling of case grows ...
![Fact Check: Trump says he wants the FBI to investigate who created the "Epstein hoax" and notes "so much of the things that we found [in the files] were fake, with me."](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fimages%2Fblog-images%2F55622%2Ftrump-says-he-wants-the-fbi-to-34492d46.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
