Epstein survivors criticize Todd Blanche after meeting with DOJ

Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and family members of victims criticized acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche after meeting with him at the Justice Department on Thursday, saying the discussion did not address their concerns. The meeting came as Blanche seeks Senate confirmation to serve permanently as attorney general. North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis had pressed for Blanche to speak with survivors before the Judiciary Committee vote, and the session could affect whether Blanche’s nomination advances. Several survivors said Blanche was condescending, evasive, and focused on securing support for his confirmation. The Justice Department described the conversation as productive, while Blanche said the meeting was not fully cordial and said he hopes criminal prosecutions can still provide justice in related cases.