The accusation underscores the partisan tensions surrounding the high-profile inquiry.
The Democrats, who control the Oversight and Accountability Committee, indicated that Bondi has so far declined to schedule a formal interview. They seek to question her about her office's interactions with federal prosecutors during the initial 2007-2008 investigation into Epstein's sex crimes, which resulted in a controversial non-prosecution agreement.
Republicans Dismiss Claims as Political Theater
In response, the committee's top Republican dismissed the Democrats' public statements as mere "theatrics." The Republican rebuttal suggests a belief that the effort to compel Bondi's testimony is politically motivated rather than a substantive investigative step.
The dispute highlights the deepening divide over the scope and purpose of the congressional probe into Epstein. While Democrats focus on potential failures in the justice system, Republicans have increasingly characterized the investigation as a partisan exercise.
Bondi, who served as Florida's attorney general from 2011 to 2019, has not publicly commented on the recent exchange. The standoff raises questions about whether the committee will resort to a subpoena to secure her cooperation, a move that would likely face fierce opposition from Republican members.