Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche dismissed claims that President Trump fired former Attorney General Pam Bondi over her handling of the Epstein files, calling such speculation “simply not true” in a Thursday interview with Jesse Watters Primetime.

Reports Contradicted by Top Official

Blanche flatly rejected media reports suggesting Trump grew frustrated with Bondi’s performance at the Justice Department, particularly regarding the release of Jeffrey Epstein documents. “I have never heard President Trump say that the attorney general was—that anything that happened to her—had anything to do with the Epstein files,” Blanche stated. He also denied a Daily Mail report alleging Bondi tipped off Rep. Eric Swalwell about FBI plans to release files on Christine Fang, a Chinese spy. “I would not believe that for a second—absolutely, positively not,” he told Watters.

Epstein Files Now Public

Blanche confirmed the Justice Department has fully complied with transparency requirements. He and Bondi testified before Congress weeks ago, making every document available to lawmakers in both redacted and unredacted form. “The Department of Justice has now released all the files with respect to the Epstein saga,” Blanche explained. He emphasized the Epstein matter should not occupy the DOJ’s attention moving forward, suggesting the chapter is closed after full disclosure was achieved through the Transparency Act.

Cabinet Shakeup Continues

Bondi’s departure marks Trump’s second major Cabinet change in just over a month, following the March 5 removal and reassignment of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Trump praised Bondi in a Truth Social post Thursday, calling her a “Great American Patriot” and “loyal friend” while announcing her transition to the private sector. Blanche echoed the appreciation, stating Americans should be “very grateful” for Bondi’s service. Trump named Blanche, whom he called a “respected Legal Mind,” as interim attorney general until a permanent replacement is confirmed. EPA Director Lee Zeldin is reportedly under consideration for the permanent position.

DOJ Operations Continue

Blanche assured Americans that Justice Department operations remain uninterrupted despite the leadership transition. “The Department of Justice is working hard every day,” he said, expressing honor at Trump’s request for him to serve as acting attorney general. He committed to maintaining the DOJ’s focus on core mission priorities while discussions continue about permanent leadership. The selection of Bondi’s successor will likely signal Trump’s priorities for the Justice Department in the final year of his second term.