A major new phase in the Epstein scandal is unfolding, raising urgent questions about accountability, transparency, and the Department of Justice’s handling of one of the most disturbing cases in modern American history.

The Miami Herald, the outlet widely credited with reopening the Epstein case years ago, is once again driving the story forward. Its top investigative reporter on the case, Julie K. Brown, reports that Donald Trump may have had far more knowledge of Epstein’s activities than previously known, according to newly surfaced records. These revelations come as lawmakers intensify scrutiny of the Justice Department and its treatment of Epstein’s convicted associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.

Maxwell Pleads the Fifth Before Congress

In a highly anticipated appearance before Congress, Ghislaine Maxwell formally invoked her Fifth Amendment right, refusing to answer any substantive questions. Lawmakers from both parties expressed frustration and outrage.

As one member put it, Maxwell showed no remorse and provided no cooperation that would advance the investigation. Several lawmakers openly questioned whether she even had the legal right to plead the Fifth, given her conviction, though she ultimately did so anyway.

The refusal only deepened concerns, especially in light of the leniency Maxwell previously received from the DOJ, including a controversial transfer to a more favorable prison facility.

Why Talk to DOJ — But Not Congress?

Adding to the controversy is a glaring contradiction. According to reporting from The New York Times, Maxwell previously spoke extensively to the Department of Justice, answering questions for nine hours over two days last summer. Her attorney later indicated she would be willing to speak “fully and honestly” only if granted clemency.

This raises troubling questions:

• Why was Maxwell willing to cooperate with DOJ but not Congress?

• Did she receive limited immunity or favorable treatment in exchange?

• Was her prison upgrade a reward for cooperation?

While no direct “smoking gun” has yet been produced, the circumstantial evidence has drawn intense scrutiny, particularly because Maxwell remains the only person in the U.S. serving time for Epstein-related crimes—yet appears to have received unusually favorable treatment.

Lawmakers Review Unredacted Epstein Files

Congressional investigators are now reviewing unredacted Epstein files that remain hidden from both the public and journalists. According to Rep. Jamie Raskin, many of the redactions appear unnecessary and potentially unlawful.

Raskin alleges that the DOJ may have been operating in “cover-up mode”, shielding the names of Epstein’s alleged enablers and collaborators without legal justification. If proven, such actions could constitute violations of federal transparency laws and potentially force the release of additional documents through court challenges.

More than three million documents remain under review.

New Evidence and 2016 Maxwell Deposition Footage

Among the newly surfaced materials is footage from Maxwell’s 2016 deposition, in which she repeatedly refused to acknowledge Epstein’s trafficking scheme, responding with evasive statements such as “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

At the time, Maxwell had not yet been criminally convicted. Today, her continued refusal to answer questions—despite her conviction—has reignited calls for accountability not only for Maxwell, but for those who enabled Epstein’s operation.

Cabinet-Level Fallout: Calls for Resignation

Pressure is also mounting on Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who previously denied continued ties to Epstein. Newly revealed emails now appear to contradict those public denials, showing discussions about visiting Epstein’s island.

Lawmakers, including Republicans, have called for Lutnick to resign or be fired, arguing that his continued presence is a liability to the administration. The House Oversight Committee has indicated that subpoenas remain an option.

Importantly, no criminal allegations have been made against Lutnick regarding Epstein’s crimes. However, the controversy underscores broader concerns about judgment, transparency, and credibility within the administration.

New Trump Revelation Raises Alarming Questions

Perhaps the most consequential development comes from Julie K. Brown’s reporting on a newly revealed FBI interview. According to the account, Trump told Palm Beach’s police chief in 2006 that Epstein’s activities with teenage girls were “well-known” and expressed relief that authorities were finally intervening.

The police chief recalled Trump saying he had once encountered Epstein in the presence of teenage girls and immediately left, describing the situation as deeply troubling.

If accurate, this account suggests Trump had early awareness of Epstein’s conduct, contradicting years of minimization and denial.

The Larger Accountability Crisis

Taken together, these developments paint a troubling picture:

• A convicted trafficker refusing to cooperate

• A DOJ accused of secrecy and favoritism

• Powerful figures allegedly shielded by redactions

• Evidence emerging years after the fact

For victims and advocates, the core concern remains unchanged: Was justice ever fully pursued—and for whom?

As lawmakers dig into unredacted files and journalists continue to uncover hidden records, the Epstein case appears far from over. The pressure on the Justice Department, and on those connected to Epstein, is only intensifying.