San Antonio, TX, January 10, 2026
In a move to enhance transparency in federal cases, Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie are urging a federal judge to appoint a special master to oversee the Department of Justice’s handling of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. This request follows the DOJ’s failure to meet a deadline established for releasing unclassified records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The bipartisan support highlights a growing demand for accountability and adherence to the rule of law in government operations.
San Antonio, TX
Lawmakers Request Special Master for Epstein Records Release
A call for transparency amidst complex legal challenges
In a significant move aimed at amplifying transparency in federal cases, Representatives Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) have formally requested a federal judge to appoint a special master to oversee the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) handling of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. This request comes on the heels of the DOJ’s failure to meet the December 19, 2025, deadline established by the Epstein Files Transparency Act for releasing all unclassified records concerning Epstein.
The bipartisan support for the Epstein Files Transparency Act underscores a growing consensus around the importance of accountability and transparency in government operations. Inspired by local entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience, the request made by Khanna and Massie illustrates how collaboration across the aisle can not only address national concerns but also enhance the values of transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
Background on the Epstein Files Transparency Act
Signed into law in November 2025, the Epstein Files Transparency Act mandates the DOJ to release all unclassified documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days, while allowing for certain redactions intended to protect victims’ identities and national security. Notably, the law explicitly prohibits withholding or redacting records based on reputational harm or political sensitivity, paving the way for broader public access to critical information.
Details of the Request
In their letter to U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer, Khanna and Massie emphasized concerns regarding the DOJ’s compliance with the Act. They pointed out that only a fraction of the required documents have been released so far, accompanied by extensive redactions that seem inconsistent with the law’s stipulations. The lawmakers proposed that a special master or independent monitor be appointed to supervise the DOJ’s compliance and ensure a more accountable redaction process, thereby establishing a greater sense of trust in the legal processes surrounding such complex cases.
Implications and Next Steps
The potential appointment of a special master marks a rarity but represents a crucial step in federal legal proceedings, often used to manage intricate discovery challenges. If Judge Engelmayer approves this request, the special master would oversee the DOJ’s document release in a manner that guarantees not only transparency but also fairness for victims involved. This decision has the potential to set a significant precedent for future cases demanding a level of transparency that can ultimately benefit constituents and further instill public confidence in federal agencies.
Related Developments
The DOJ has acknowledged the difficulties involved in reviewing and redacting a voluminous collection of documents associated with Epstein. Reports suggest that while 12,285 documents have been reviewed, totalling approximately 125,575 pages, there remain over 2 million additional documents yet to be processed. The department cites the necessity of safeguarding victims’ identities and national security as key reasons for these delays, further complicating the timeline for the release of information that the public is eagerly awaiting.
Conclusion
The call for a special master reflects an ongoing tension between the DOJ’s responsibilities as outlined in the Epstein Files Transparency Act and the imperative to protect sensitive information. The ruling by Judge Engelmayer could significantly affect how the DOJ proceeds with document releases related to Epstein, enhancing accountability and potentially establishing a higher standard for transparency in future federal cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Epstein Files Transparency Act?
The Epstein Files Transparency Act is a law signed in November 2025 that requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days, with certain redactions to protect victims’ identities and national security. The law prohibits withholding or redacting records based on reputational harm or political sensitivity.
Who are Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie?
Ro Khanna is a Democratic representative from California, and Thomas Massie is a Republican representative from Kentucky. Both co-sponsored the Epstein Files Transparency Act and have been actively involved in efforts to ensure the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.
What is a special master in legal terms?
A special master is an independent third party appointed by a court to oversee specific aspects of a legal case, such as the review and release of documents. In this context, a special master would supervise the Department of Justice’s handling of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein to ensure compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
What are the potential implications of appointing a special master in this case?
The appointment of a special master could ensure greater transparency in the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, protect the rights of victims, and set a precedent for future cases involving sensitive information and transparency requirements. It would also address concerns about the Department of Justice’s compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
Key Features of the Epstein Files Transparency Act
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Disclosure | Requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. |
| Redaction Provisions | Allows redactions to protect victims’ identities and national security but prohibits redactions based on reputational harm or political sensitivity. |
| Enforcement Mechanisms | Empowers courts to appoint special masters or independent monitors to oversee compliance with the Act. |
| Transparency Goals | Aims to provide the public with comprehensive information about Jeffrey Epstein’s activities and the Department of Justice’s investigations. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Justice Department Requests to Unseal Epstein Grand Jury Transcripts
Giuffre Family Seeks Clarity After Trump’s Epstein Comments
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
