GOP lawmaker calls out FBI Director Kash Patel for 'troubling deflection' on Epstein files

FBI Director Kash Patel came under fire early Wednesday morning for what one GOP lawmaker called a "troubling deflection" on the controversial Epstein files release.

Patel was asked in an interview if the FBI will release the Epstein files by the 30 day deadline that's required under the newly passed Epstein transparency law, and he responded with, "Well, we are working with our partners at the Department of Justice... to release what we can lawfully, legally produce." He then adds that there are numerous barriers keeping certain files from being publicly disclosed by the federal agency.

Massie flagged that view just after midnight on Wednesday, calling out Patel's refusal to answer the direction question.

"Troubling deflection by [Patel] when asked if he will follow Epstein Files Transparency LAW passed by Congress and signed by the President," the lawmaker wrote. "Example of documents in his possession that must be released: FD-302 forms summarizing interviews (w/ only victim names redacted)."