The controversy over the management of Jeffrey Epstein's files became the main obstacle this Wednesday for Todd Blanche, who appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee seeking to be confirmed as United States Secretary of Justice.

Although the official defended the work carried out by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and assured that the current administration has been “the most transparent” regarding the case, questions about errors in the publication of the documents dominated much of the hearing.

“I want to make sure that the American people know that this administration, when it comes to Jeffrey Epstein, has been more transparent than any administration,” Blanche said during her appearance.

According to AP information, the official acknowledged that there were flaws in the disclosure of the files, although he maintained that they were corrected and that the objective was always to offer the highest level of transparency possible. Among the errors detected were censorship problems that left photographs and personal data of possible victims visible, which provoked strong criticism.

Epstein files overshadow Blanche confirmation

Beyond his closeness with President Donald Trump, the issue that most concerned the senators was the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, considered one of the most sensitive files in the Department of Justice.

Controversy escalated after former Attorney General Pam Bondi said in private meetings with lawmakers that Blanche was primarily responsible for overseeing the release of the documents. Although the official denied any wrongdoing, the episode fueled doubts about his ability to lead the DOJ.

Republicans will define the future of the official

With almost unanimous opposition from Democrats, Blanche needs the support of every Republican on the committee for her nomination to move forward. Legislators such as John Cornyn and Thom Tillis avoided advancing their vote and made it clear that the hearing would be decisive.

In addition to the Epstein case, the senators also questioned Blanche's closeness to Trump, her role in investigations against the president's political adversaries and her participation in recent decisions by the Department of Justice.