• Justice Department confirms no "client list" exists related to Jeffrey Epstein.
• Attorney General Pam Bondi faces criticism from far-right influencers over unfulfilled promises.
• Former President Trump defends Bondi amidst demands for her resignation from conservative critics.
• The Justice Department refuses further public disclosures related to Epstein's case.
• Bondi maintains she never referred to a specific list, but to case files.

The Justice Department has acknowledged that notorious financier Jeffrey Epstein did not maintain a “client list” related to sex trafficking, contrary to earlier claims made by Attorney General Pam Bondi. This statement represents a significant walk-back of suggestions made during the Trump administration, particularly by Bondi, who hinted in interviews that evidence was forthcoming. However, the department has stated that no further files will be made public, despite earlier promises, raising concerns among conservative circles and conspiracy theorists that anticipated revelations about Epstein’s connections could be uncovered, according to scmp and latimes.

This announcement follows a tumultuous relationship between the Department and Epstein's critics, culminating in claims from Bondi that a “truckload” of evidence was due to be disclosed. Critics within the MAGA movement expressed outrage at what they perceived as government mismanagement, reflecting a disconnection between the administration's promises and the realities revealed in the Justice Department’s memo. Far-right influencers like Jack Posobiec criticized the situation, asserting that the investigation has been poorly handled, according to trtglobal and latimes.

In an effort to clarify her previous statements, Bondi indicated that she had been referring to general files concerning Epstein rather than a specific list of clients. Nevertheless, this interpretation has not quelled the dissatisfaction among some conservative pundits and Trump supporters, leading to calls for her resignation. Prominent figures such as conspiracy theorist Alex Jones have displayed their frustrations on social media, dismissing the Justice Department’s findings as a government cover-up, according to trtglobal and latimes.

Amidst the backlash, President Trump defended Bondi at a recent Cabinet meeting, discouraging inquiries into the Epstein matter, showcasing his support for her amid the controversies. His remarks also indicated a desire to focus on other pressing issues, signifying a protective stance concerning Bondi's position. Such a defense suggests that Bondi may continue to navigate her responsibilities despite the growing dissent from her party’s base, according to trtglobal.

Despite the frustration expressed regarding the lack of disclosures, the Justice Department’s memo emphasized its commitment to protecting victims and combating child exploitation, stressing that “only a fraction” of information would have been available had Epstein gone to trial. The department continues to maintain that most evidence gathered in the case is sealed to protect involved parties, leading to further questions about what, if any, material could eventually be made public, according to latimes and scmp.