Democrats launch investigation into DOJ tracking of lawmakers’ Epstein files searches
The Hill
by Rebecca BeitschFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
House Democrats have launched a joint investigation into the Justice Department (DOJ) following reports that Attorney General Pam Bondi reviewed summaries of a lawmaker’s searches of unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files. The probe was initiated after it was revealed that the DOJ had been tracking lawmakers’ access to sensitive documents related to Epstein, sparking concerns about privacy and transparency.
The investigation was announced by House Judiciary Committee and Oversight Committee Democrats in a letter addressed to Acting Attorney General Monty Wilkinson. The letter accuses the DOJ of improperly monitoring lawmakers who were reviewing unredacted files connected to Epstein’s case. It demands an immediate halt to the tracking of Members’ file access logs, which were compiled without their knowledge.
This action has raised eyebrows on Capitol Hill and among legal experts, as it appears to blur the lines between national security and individual privacy rights. Critics argue that such surveillance could set a dangerous precedent for government overreach, potentially targeting political figures for partisan purposes.
The case has significant implications for transparency in government operations, particularly given Epstein’s ties to high-profile individuals and organizations. Democrats’ concerns extend beyond this specific instance, as they are calling for stronger safeguards to prevent similar abuses of power in the future.
For readers interested in politics, this story highlights the delicate balance between protecting sensitive information and maintaining public trust in government institutions. The investigation underscores ongoing debates about transparency, privacy rights, and the role of oversight in ensuring
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026