Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche flatly rejected reports that President Trump fired Pam Bondi over the Epstein files, calling the speculation “simply not true” during a Thursday appearance on Fox News. Trump confirmed Bondi’s departure on Truth Social, marking his second major Cabinet shakeup in two months and sparking intense scrutiny over what triggered her removal from the Justice Department.

Epstein Files Speculation DENIED

Blanche told Jesse Watters he never heard Trump cite the Epstein files as a reason for Bondi’s dismissal. The Justice Department released all files related to Jeffrey Epstein after Trump signed the Transparency Act, with both Blanche and Bondi testifying before Congress weeks ago. “The Epstein files should not be a part of anything going forward,” Blanche stated, emphasizing the department made every document available to lawmakers in both redacted and unredacted forms.

Swalwell Tip-Off Claims REJECTED

The acting attorney general also dismissed Daily Mail reporting that suggested Bondi tipped off Representative Eric Swalwell about FBI plans to release files on Christine Fang, a Chinese spy previously connected to the California Democrat. “I would not believe that for a second—absolutely, positively not,” Blanche declared. He confirmed he and Bondi personally handled the assignment together, directly contradicting media accounts of improper information sharing with congressional Democrats.

Cabinet Shakeup Continues

Trump’s decision to remove Bondi follows his March dismissal of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, establishing a pattern of swift Cabinet changes. The president praised Bondi as a “Great American Patriot” and “loyal friend” who will transition to private sector work. Blanche credited Bondi with making the Justice Department stronger and the nation safer during her tenure. “We should all be very grateful to the attorney general for her sacrifice for this country,” he told Fox News viewers.

Zeldin Emerges As Replacement

Environmental Protection Agency Director Lee Zeldin reportedly tops the list of potential replacements, with sources confirming discussions occurred during a Tuesday White House meeting. Trump called Blanche a “respected Legal Mind” when announcing he will serve as interim attorney general until a permanent successor is confirmed. The Justice Department continues normal operations despite the leadership transition, with Blanche vowing the agency will “keep on working hard” throughout the change.