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This past Friday, Pam Bondi assigned interim US attorney Jay Clayton to head an probe into political adversaries of Donald Trump and their links with the late financier. This action came just after the president directed her to begin the investigation.

In a statement, Bondi praised Jay Clayton as “a highly skilled and reliable legal expert”. The official stated, “The department will handle this matter promptly and thoroughly to provide clarity for citizens.”

This action appears to contradict a recent memorandum from justice department officials which stated that the Epstein files did not warrant further inquiries. As per the memo, investigators “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties”

The President Calls for Focus on Democrats in Epstein Case

The announcement coincides with increasing pressure from Trump on congressional Republicans to resist the full release of files concerning Epstein before an key congressional decision next week. Several lawmakers are expected to support the release.

Newly public emails from Jeffrey Epstein have highlighted the president’s past involvement with the convicted criminal, including information that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.

On Friday, Trump announced he would ask the DOJ to investigate Epstein’s ties with Democrats, including Bill Clinton, Larry Summers and Reid Hoffman. Paradoxically, Trump also described the “Epstein hoax” as a “scam”.

Other Developments from the Day

• The President announced he would take legal action against the British broadcaster, despite an apology from the media outlet. He claimed the lawsuit could seek billions in damages.
• Epstein allegedly advised former Trump aide Steve Bannon during a pro-Trump effort to support the president’s agenda. Text messages released show Epstein’s involvement in coaching Bannon.
• American forces are planning for a partitioned Gaza, with a secure area under international and Israeli control and a restricted section left in ruins.
• Georgia prosecutor have revived the last remaining criminal case against the President after naming a new lead prosecutor.
• The President changed trade measures by reducing duties on imported goods like various food items to combat inflation concerns.
• US and Switzerland reached a deal to reduce tariffs on Swiss goods from a significant decrease.

Other notable events featured appeals to safeguard public lands, objections of an monitoring group, and a judge’s decision for a resolution in the OxyContin lawsuit.