Conversation with Reps. Massie and Khanna on 'Face the Nation,' Dec. 21, 2025

Hosted by CBS News

Margaret Brennan welcomed two congressional figures, Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, to discuss recent legislative developments regarding document release. Massie, presenting from Kentucky, and Khanna, speaking from California, shared insights on their recent efforts. Margaret initiated the dialogue with Massie, noting the Office of Justice acknowledged a partial release of documents. Although over 13,000 files have been made public, Massie argued that full compliance with the law—which he co-authored—has yet to be achieved. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring transparency and justice.

Thomas Massie expressed dissatisfaction, claiming the Justice Department is not adhering to both the spirit and the letter of the statute. He insists that only when the survivors are satisfied will he consider the task complete. Massie highlighted the need for implicating other involved offenders and suspects, suggesting that crucial testimony provided by victims to the FBI remains silent.

Turning to Rep. Khanna, Margaret noted fresh revelations from the files. Allegedly, back in 1996, the FBI had received a complaint regarding Jeffrey Epstein neither followed through. Khanna believes this reflects an overdue validation for Maria Farmer, the complainant, highlighting a troubling delay in action against Epstein's network of allies. His focus remains on identifying and prosecuting those powerful figures who may have visited Epstein’s properties or shielded his crimes.

Khanna remarked that Farmer's testimony was probably the most crucial piece of information revealed. He recounted Farmer's initial warning to the FBI, which went ignored due to Epstein's extensive connections with influential figures. Khanna argued the attention has shifted wrongly towards a debate over timing rather than full disclosure of the involved individuals.

While Margaret anticipated further disclosures per the Deputy Attorney General, Khanna criticized the extensive redactions. He mentioned that legal scholars have deemed many of these redactions unjustifiable. Khanna advocated for total transparency, restating that the real questions concern the identities of the perpetrator and their protectors.

Massie detailed that legal advisors for the victims have indicated at least 20 identified offenders, but only Jeffrey Staley’s name has been confirmed to him. He remains skeptical about future disclosures, noting past governmental communication suggested evasions justified by obsolete laws, contravening intentions of the new statutes.

Margaret continued by questioning whether mere appearance in documents implies criminality and whether the government arguments claiming adherence to legal redaction align with their statute’s intent. Massie dismissed these defenses, asserting the designated judges have already clarified the prioritization of their law.

Massie asserted unyielding plans to hold the Justice Department accountable, proposing inherent contempt proceedings as a direct measure against non-compliance. Both he and Khanna are preparing necessary steps to implement this, hoping to sidestep lengthy judicial processes.

Khanna shared his strategy of forging a bipartisan coalition within the House to impose fines on Pam Bondi, aiming for expedited enforcement of compliance. He reflected on the disappointment expressed by victims, some exposed through document errors, yet still denied full justice by concealing Epstein's accomplices.

Margaret shifted to potential political consequences, referencing a statement from Senator Tim Kaine expressing skepticism about severe actions like impeachment. Khanna clarified the independence of the House in applying internal sanctions without Senate involvement. Anticipating broad support, he pressed for a congressional review of the document redactions.

The discussion also touched on the recent release of images involving past Presidents Clinton and Trump, which have not implicated them in wrongdoing related to Epstein but still captured public attention. Khanna redirected attention to essential matters such as untranslated prosecution documents, asserting that public focus should not skew from accountability.

Khanna emphasized his unrelenting pursuit of truth in an intricate ecosystem of influence, urging full exposure of Epstein-related crimes including potential international threats. While officials provide public figures’ photos, Khanna demands revelations of those with substantive legal implications. Echoing public frustrations, he pointed to widespread distrust fueled by documented inaction.

Margaret concluded by previewing potential legislative actions in January, underscoring the urgency to address perceived governmental failings. The representatives reiterated their commitment to advocating for victims and transparency in government interactions, implying continued scrutiny of the Attorney General’s Office will persist.