DOJ Denies Trump Connection to Epstein File Photos Removed from Web

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated Sunday that the Justice Department’s removal of photographs from its public webpage for Jeffrey Epstein’s files had “nothing to do with” President Donald Trump and was part of a “methodical process” designed to protect victims.

Blanche, appearing on NBC News’ Meet the Press, defended the department’s actions after victim advocacy groups requested deletions of images depicting women. He emphasized that delays in disclosing material under the Epstein Files Transparency Act were driven by privacy protections and the need for “hundreds of lawyers” to review documents line by line, redacting victims’ names and identifying details.

Blanche noted that a photo containing Trump was pulled after concerns arose about its depiction of women but insisted Trump’s presence did not warrant removal. “You can see in that photo, there are photographs of women,” he said. “So, we pulled that photo down.”

When pressed by host Kristen Welker on whether redactions were made for “embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity”—a category prohibited under law—Blanche affirmed they were strictly for victim protection and legally recognized privileges. He dismissed Democratic claims that the DOJ is hiding information about Trump as a “hoax,” stating there is “nothing he has to hide” in the files.

Blanche guaranteed all mentions and photos of Trump would be released except where necessary redactions apply, adding the same standard would apply to anyone else. The Justice Department plans to release “everything” from the case within weeks after completing reviews and redactions, he said.