Epstein Files: Clinton Pushes for Full Release

Byline: Alex Rivera, Senior Investigative Correspondent Published: February 18, 2026 | www.clickusanews.com

The fallout from the U.S. Department of Justice’s massive release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files—over 3.5 million pages, 180,000 images, and 2,000 videos under the Epstein Files Transparency Act—intensified this week with fresh scrutiny on powerful figures, congressional depositions, and bipartisan calls for transparency. On February 18, billionaire Les Wexner faced hours of closed-door questioning by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee in Ohio, probing his long-standing ties to the late convicted sex offender. Meanwhile, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton accused the Trump administration of a “cover-up” and “slow-walking” full disclosure, urging the public release of remaining millions of withheld documents.

The files, mandated by law signed in late 2025, have exposed networks of correspondence, photos, and allegations involving politicians, business titans, academics, and celebrities. While much remains redacted (citing victim privacy, ongoing probes, or graphic content), unredacted portions and congressional access to secure DOJ rooms have fueled demands for more. No new criminal charges have emerged from the latest tranche, but the revelations have triggered resignations, investigations, and political firestorms.

Recent Releases and DOJ Actions

The DOJ’s January 30, 2026, dump complied partially with the Act, but about 3 million pages remain withheld—prompting criticism. On February 15, the DOJ sent Congress a list of “politically exposed persons” named in the files, including former Presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, former advisers like Steve Bannon, former White House Counsel Kathy Ruemmler, and billionaire Les Wexner. The list provides little context, leading to accusations of selective transparency.

Controversial redactions drew bipartisan fire: Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) challenged the DOJ over six previously redacted names (including Wexner, labeled an “unindicted co-conspirator” in some FBI docs with “limited evidence”). The DOJ later unredacted several, including Wexner, Jean-Luc Brunel, and others. Critics argue redactions protect enablers while exposing victims (e.g., unredacted nude photos of young women/teens were removed after media scrutiny).

The files include emails, texts, photos (e.g., Bill Clinton in a hot pool with Epstein and a described victim), financial notes, and network diagrams—shedding light on Epstein’s connections but often lacking direct evidence of wrongdoing by associates.

Key Figures and Upcoming Depositions

• Les Wexner: The Ohio retail magnate (Victoria’s Secret founder) was deposed February 18 in a closed session at his New Albany home (moved from D.C. for convenience). Questions focused on his financial support for Epstein (power of attorney until 2007, when Epstein allegedly stole millions), photos in files, and co-conspirator labeling. Wexner, 88, pledged cooperation; no charges against him. Fallout includes Ohio lawmakers distancing from his donations and scrutiny of institutions like Ohio State (Wexner Medical Center ties).
• Hillary and Bill Clinton: Hillary Clinton, in a BBC interview at the Munich Security Conference, slammed the Trump DOJ for “slow-walking” releases and demanded “get the files out.” Both agreed to filmed, behind-closed-door depositions (Hillary on February 26, Bill on February 27) after contempt threats. Bill has denied wrongdoing; photos show his Epstein associations.
• Other Probes: Ghislaine Maxwell invoked the Fifth in a recent deposition. Upcoming witnesses include Epstein’s accountant, lawyer, and estate executors. Bipartisan committee efforts (led by Rep. James Comer) continue, with access to unredacted files.

Broader Implications and Fallout

The releases have caused resignations/investigations globally (e.g., academia, business, foreign politics) and renewed calls for accountability. UN experts suggested allegations may amount to “crimes against humanity” in a global enterprise. Domestically, it fuels midterm politics—Trump’s base demands full disclosure; Democrats accuse delays of protecting allies.

Transparency debates persist: DOJ cites victim protection and probe integrity; advocates argue for more openness. As depositions unfold and potential further releases loom, the Epstein saga continues exposing elite networks—raising questions about power, accountability, and justice delayed.

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