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This past Friday, Pam Bondi designated interim US attorney Jay Clayton to lead an inquiry into opponents of Donald Trump and their relationships with the late financier. This move came hours after the president directed her to begin the investigation.

In a statement, Bondi commended Clayton as “one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country”. The official remarked, “The department will handle this matter promptly and thoroughly to provide clarity for citizens.”

This action seems to diverge from a recent memorandum from justice department officials which declared that documents related to Epstein lacked grounds for additional investigations. As per the document, authorities “found no proof justifying probes into uncharged individuals”

The President Calls for Scrutiny of Political Opponents in Epstein Matter

The announcement comes as growing pressure from the president on congressional Republicans to block the full release of Epstein-related documents before an upcoming House vote next week. Many Republicans are anticipated to support the release.

Recently released emails from Epstein have spotlighted the president’s previous connections with the convicted criminal, including details that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.

On Friday, the President declared he would ask the DOJ to investigate Epstein’s ties with Democrats, specifically naming prominent individuals such as Clinton, Summers, and Hoffman. Interestingly, Trump also described the “Epstein situation” as a “scam”.

Additional Updates from Friday

• The President announced he would file a lawsuit against the British broadcaster, even after an apology from the network. Trump said the legal case could seek between a billion and $5bn.
• Epstein reportedly advised Steve Bannon during a 2018 media campaign to support the president’s agenda. Communications released show his role in coaching the influencer.
• US military are planning for a partitioned Gaza, with a secure area under joint military oversight and a “red zone” unreconstructed.
• Georgia prosecutor have revived the last remaining criminal case against the President after naming a new lead prosecutor.
• The President reversed trade measures by cutting duties on food imports like beef, tomatoes, coffee and bananas to address inflation concerns.
• The two nations reached a trade agreement to reduce import taxes on Swiss goods from 39% to 15%.

Additional developments featured appeals to safeguard public lands, criticism of an antisemitism watchdog, and a judge’s decision for a resolution in the Purdue Pharma lawsuit.