DOJ misses Epstein files release deadline; publishes heavily redacted batch

The DOJ released an initial batch of Epstein files on Dec. 19, 2025, the statutory deadline under Public Law 119-38, but violated the law by making extensive redactions. More than 500 pages were entirely blacked out. Rep. Massie stated: "DOJ did break the law by making illegal redactions and by missing the deadline." The DOJ said it needed more time after discovering over one million additional potentially relevant documents.