House Judiciary Committee Faces Backlash for Epstein Prank

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Judiciary Committee faced significant backlash on Thursday, February 27, following a controversial post on the House Judiciary GOP social media account that suggested the release of Jeffrey Epstein‘s client list. Instead, the post directed users to a link of Rick Astley’s 1987 music video ‘Never Gonna Give You Up,’ a popular internet prank known as ‘rickrolling.’

The social media account announced, ‘BREAKING: EPSTEIN FILES RELEASED,’ but quickly became a focal point for criticism. The post was corrected by community notes from X fact-checkers stating it was not a legitimate disclosure, and many users expressed their disapproval. One user, Monnie, questioned, ‘Is this supposed to be funny?’ while another, Kristen Ruby, remarked on the implications for cybersecurity trust in such a prank, stating, ‘Sending American people to a tiny url that redirects to an unknown destination is a great way to ensure trust in the cybersecurity domain.’

In related developments, Attorney General Pam Bondi has called for the release of all documents related to Epstein’s case, including alleged client names and flight logs. Bondi expressed her hope for these documents to be shared by the end of the week. Epstein was charged with sex trafficking in 2019 and later found dead in his jail cell, a death ruled a suicide amidst ongoing speculation and conspiracy theories regarding foul play.

The public’s demand for transparency has grown, with many calling for a full accounting of Epstein’s connections to powerful individuals, including former Presidents Donald Trump and Bill Clinton, and prominent figures such as Prince Andrew and Bill Gates.

Numerous high-profile voices have echoed the call for accountability, particularly given the serious allegations surrounding Epstein and his associates. The latest request from Bondi reflects a continued push for extensive investigation into the case, with implications for those potentially implicated in Epstein’s activities.

Epstein’s mysterious death and the controversies surrounding his network continue to raise questions about accountability and oversight regarding wealthy individuals and their connections to sex trafficking and exploitation of minors.