Epstein survivors criticize acting AG Blanche after July 16

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced sharp criticism from survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and their families following a meeting on July 16, which they described as failing to deliver meaningful answers or commitments regarding the Justice Department's handling of the case. The meeting, held at the Justice Department headquarters, was arranged under pressure from lawmakers and became a key condition for Blanche's pending confirmation to become attorney general.

The session occurred because Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina had stated he would not support advancing Blanche's nomination until the acting attorney general met with women who say they were abused by Epstein. With Republicans holding a narrow majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche needs the support of every Republican member to move forward. Illinois Democratic Senator Dick Durbin also urged the meeting, suggesting Blanche should not receive a vote before doing so.

Survivors who attended, however, said they left feeling dismissed and unheard. Annie Farmer, an Epstein survivor who testified at the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell, said the encounter strengthened her opposition to Blanche's...