• The Justice Department has discovered over one million additional documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.
• Documents' release will be delayed by "a few more weeks" to allow for proper review and redactions.
• A dozen U.S. senators are urging oversight of the department's handling of the Epstein files, citing concerns over transparency.
• The Epstein Files Transparency Act mandated the department to release all relevant documents by December 19.
• Release of some information has raised concerns over extensive redactions, particularly regarding victim identities.

The U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) has reported the discovery of over one million additional documents relevant to the Jeffrey Epstein case, leading to delays in the public release of these files. The DOJ indicated that this process may take "a few more weeks," as officials work to review and redact the necessary material to protect victims’ identities, as mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which required compliance with a prior release deadline of December 19, 2025, according to Reuters, Los Angeles Times, and CBS News.

Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and eleven other U.S. senators have called for an audit of the DOJ’s compliance with the transparency act, arguing that victims "deserve full disclosure" and a “neutral assessment” of the department's actions is essential. This letter emphasizes the historic hostility surrounding transparency in the handling of Epstein’s files, as many records released so far have been heavily redacted, raising concerns among lawmakers about a potential cover-up, according to Los Angeles Times and Channel News Asia.

In its communications, the DOJ acknowledged the logistical challenges posed by the large volume of documents, asserting that they are "working around the clock" to ensure compliance with both the law and procedural safeguards for victim protection. The recent discovery complicates an already convoluted process, given previous statements suggesting no further evidence existed, highlighting discrepancies within the administration's investigative and disclosure practices, as noted by Al Jazeera and ABC News.

The public and political scrutiny of the DOJ's handling of the Epstein case is intensifying, with prominent lawmakers openly questioning the effectiveness of the department under these circumstances. Moreover, allegations regarding failures to meet legal obligations regarding document release have been proliferated, suggesting a broader call for accountability from both sides of the aisle, as expressed in recent statements from various senators, including minority leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), who condemned the current release approach as "a blatant cover-up," according to South China Morning Post and CBS News.