Pam Bondi, who was recently dismissed from her post as U.S. Attorney General by President Donald Trump, is refusing to comply with a subpoena for a deposition before the House Oversight Committee scheduled for April 14.
The Department of Justice notified the committee that the subpoena, originally issued in March 2026, is no longer legally binding. This assertion is based on the fact that Bondi was subpoenaed in her official capacity as the nation's top law enforcement officer.
President Trump removed Bondi from her position early last week. Since she is no longer serving as Attorney General, the DOJ maintains she is no longer obligated to fulfill the requirements of the official-capacity summons.
The House Oversight Committee, led by Chairman James Comer, R-KY, had planned the closed-door session to investigate the Justice Department’s handling and release of records pertaining to the Jeffrey Epstein sex-trafficking case.
Lawmakers are seeking clarity on the internal processes used to manage sensitive documents and death-related files connected to the deceased financier. The investigation has received bipartisan support as the public continues to demand the release of unredacted records.
Democrats and several Republicans on the committee have pushed back against the DOJ's legal interpretation. They argue that the information Bondi possesses remains relevant to congressional oversight, regardless of her current employment status.
Committee members have indicated they intend to pursue Bondi’s testimony through alternative means if the current subpoena is not honored. They contend that the transition in leadership should not serve as a shield against accountability for actions taken during her tenure.
The standoff marks a significant escalation in the ongoing friction between the executive branch and the House regarding the transparency of the Epstein files. Advocates have long criticized the DOJ for its perceived lack of openness regarding the investigation.
As of Wednesday, April 8, the committee has not yet formally reissued a personal subpoena. However, leadership has signaled that they are prepared to reschedule the appearance to ensure the investigation continues without further delay.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the post-Bondi era at the Justice Department. The situation remains fluid as legal teams review the protocols for former cabinet officials testifying on matters related to their previous government service.