Attorney General Announces Probe into Trump Rivals and Epstein Links
This past Friday, the Attorney General designated Jay Clayton to head an inquiry into opponents of Donald Trump and their connections with the late financier. This move came just after Trump ordered her to launch the probe.
During an announcement, the Attorney General commended Jay Clayton as “one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country”. She remarked, “The department will handle this matter promptly and thoroughly to provide clarity for citizens.”
This action contrasts with a July memo from justice department officials which declared that the Epstein files lacked grounds for further inquiries. According to the document, investigators “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties”
The President Demands Scrutiny of Democrats in Epstein Case
The announcement comes as increasing pressure from the president on lawmakers to resist the public disclosure of Epstein-related documents ahead of an upcoming House vote next week. Many Republicans are anticipated to back the disclosure.
Recently released emails from Epstein have highlighted the president’s past involvement with the sex trafficker, including details that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.
On Friday, the President declared he would direct the DOJ to examine Epstein’s ties with Democrats, including Bill Clinton, Larry Summers and Reid Hoffman. Paradoxically, he also described the “Epstein situation” as a “deception”.
Additional Developments from the Day
- Trump announced he would file a lawsuit against the British broadcaster, despite an apology from the network. He said the lawsuit could seek between a billion and $5bn.
- Epstein reportedly guided former Trump aide Steve Bannon during a pro-Trump effort to defend Trump’s policies. Text messages released detail his role in advising the influencer.
- US military are planning for a partitioned Gaza, with a “green zone” under international and Israeli control and a “red zone” unreconstructed.
- Georgia prosecutor have reopened the last remaining criminal case against the President after appointing a new lead prosecutor.
- The President reversed tariff policy by reducing duties on imported goods like various food items to combat inflation concerns.
- US and Switzerland concluded a trade agreement to reduce import taxes on products from Switzerland from 39% to 15%.
Other notable events included calls to protect national parks, criticism of an antisemitism watchdog, and a judge’s decision for a resolution in the OxyContin case.
