Vance Admits Trump Administration Mishandled Epstein Files Communication

Vice President JD Vance acknowledged that the Trump administration "completely messed up" the communication strategy regarding the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, but denied any intent to conceal information. In a lengthy interview on The Joe Rogan Experience, Vance criticized former Attorney General Pam Bondi for exaggerating claims about a "client list" and distributing documents that were mostly already public. Source: CNN He stated, "We absolutely screwed up the communication of the Epstein files, we really did. But do I think the reason we screwed up the communication was because we were trying to hide something? No." Source: Diario Libre

Vance attributed part of the controversy to Bondi's statement that a client list was "on my desk right now," which he said was an overstatement that fueled distrust. Source: Diario Libre He also pointed to the "original sin" of the Epstein investigation in 2007-2008, blaming former federal prosecutor Alex Acosta for a lenient plea deal. Source: CNN

Regarding broader conspiracy theories, Vance suggested Epstein had connections to US and Israeli intelligence, but he stopped short of endorsing any specific claims. He defended President Trump's role, arguing Trump could have blocked the release if he wanted, despite reports of GOP efforts to delay it. Source: CNN

The Justice Department began releasing a large volume of documents in late December 2025, including photos, call logs, and grand jury testimony. Source: Diario Libre The administration continues to face criticism from both supporters and opponents over the handling of the case.