🔗 Share this article

This past Friday, the Attorney General designated interim US attorney Jay Clayton to lead an inquiry into political adversaries of Donald Trump and their connections with the late financier. This decision came hours after the president ordered her to initiate the investigation.

During an announcement, the Attorney General praised Jay Clayton as “one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country”. The official stated, “This case will be addressed with speed and honesty to ensure public transparency.”

This development appears to contradict a recent memorandum from justice department officials which stated that documents related to Epstein lacked grounds for further inquiries. As per the document, authorities “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties”

Trump Calls for Scrutiny of Political Opponents in Epstein Case

The announcement comes as increasing demands from the president on lawmakers to resist the full release of files concerning Epstein before an upcoming House vote in the coming days. Several lawmakers are expected to back the release.

Recently released emails from Epstein have brought attention to Trump’s previous connections with the convicted criminal, including information that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.

That same day, Trump declared he would direct the DOJ to examine connections between Epstein and Democratic figures, including prominent individuals such as Clinton, Summers, and Hoffman. Interestingly, he also described the “Epstein hoax” as a “scam”.

Other Developments from the Day

• Trump announced he would take legal action against the BBC, despite an apology from the network. Trump said the lawsuit could seek between a billion and $5bn.
• Epstein allegedly guided former Trump aide Steve Bannon during a 2018 media campaign to support Trump’s policies. Text messages made public detail his role in coaching Bannon.
• American forces are developing plans for a divided Gaza, with a secure area under joint military oversight and a restricted section left in ruins.
• Georgia prosecutor have revived the sole ongoing legal case against the President after appointing a replacement attorney.
• Trump reversed tariff policy by cutting taxes on imported goods like various food items to address inflation concerns.
• US and Switzerland reached a deal to lower import taxes on products from Switzerland from 39% to 15%.

Additional developments included calls to protect national parks, criticism of an monitoring group, and a court approval for a resolution in the Purdue Pharma case.