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On Friday, the Attorney General assigned interim US attorney Jay Clayton to lead an inquiry into opponents of Donald Trump and their relationships with Jeffrey Epstein. This move came hours after Trump ordered her to initiate the investigation.

In a statement, the Attorney General commended Clayton as “a highly skilled and reliable legal expert”. She stated, “This case will be addressed with speed and honesty to ensure public transparency.”

This development contrasts with a recent memorandum from justice department officials which indicated that documents related to Epstein lacked grounds for further inquiries. As per the memo, authorities “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties”

The President Demands Focus on Democrats in the Epstein Case

This news comes as increasing pressure from the president on congressional Republicans to resist the full release of files concerning Epstein ahead of an upcoming House vote next week. Many Republicans are expected to back the release.

Recently released emails from Epstein have highlighted Trump’s past involvement with the convicted criminal, revealing information that he knew more about Epstein’s conduct than he has previously let on.

That same day, Trump announced he would direct the Department of Justice to examine connections between Epstein and Democratic figures, including Bill Clinton, Larry Summers and Reid Hoffman. Paradoxically, Trump also described the “Epstein situation” as a “scam”.

Other Updates from Friday

• The President stated he would take legal action against the BBC, despite an apology from the media outlet. He said the legal case could seek billions in damages.
• Epstein reportedly advised former Trump aide Steve Bannon during a pro-Trump effort to support Trump’s policies. Text messages released show Epstein’s role in coaching Bannon.
• US military are developing plans for a partitioned Gaza, with a “green zone” under international and Israeli control and a “red zone” left in ruins.
• Georgia prosecutor have reopened the last remaining criminal case against Trump after naming a replacement attorney.
• Trump changed trade measures by cutting taxes on imported goods like various food items to combat inflation concerns.
• US and Switzerland concluded a deal to reduce tariffs on Swiss goods from a significant decrease.

Other notable events included calls to protect national parks, criticism of an antisemitism watchdog, and a judge’s decision for a resolution in the Purdue Pharma case.