President Donald Trump told voters he would “release the Epstein files.” His attorney general, Pam Bondi, even claimed they were “on her desk.” Yet, it’s a promise he has no legal power to keep.
Most Epstein records — grand jury testimony, sealed depositions, FBI reports — are under the authority of federal courts, not the White House. By law, Rule 6(e) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure bars disclosure of grand jury material without a judge’s order. That’s not political — it’s constitutional. The separation of powers exists so that no president can decide what court evidence to publish.
That doesn’t mean nothing can be released. Some records — especially FBI files — may be reviewed under the Freedom of Information Act. Attorneys general can also petition judges to unseal documents. But no administration, Republican or Democrat, can simply open the vault and publish everything.
The people want transparency, especially when powerful names are involved. So Trump pushed the issue. But the legal system moves slower than politics, and disclosure runs through the courts, not the Oval Office.
So what can Americans do? First, use FOIA to file requests with the Department of Justice and FBI. Even if results are heavily redacted, it builds pressure. Second, support survivors and watchdog groups that file legal motions to unseal records — judges often weigh public interest when making these decisions. Third, call and write your congressional representative and U.S. senators. Congress has the power to hold hearings, subpoena records and demand answers from federal agencies. Finally, don’t let the issue fade. Public attention is what keeps courts and lawmakers engaged.
In other words, the power is with the people and their elected representatives — exactly how our system was designed to work. As President Trump said in his 2016 inaugural address: “We are transferring power from Washington, D.C., and giving it back to you, the people.” At that moment, the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard representing all five branches stood behind him, symbolizing that while citizens hold civic authority, institutions like the military remain steady, disciplined and under civilian leadership.
Nancy Fairbanks
Valencia
