Why fund the DOJ if they won’t really reveal the Epstein files? | Opinion

DOJ protecting abusers

Trump infamously said he would protect women “whether they like it or not”.

The response of Trump (and most Republican politicians) to the release of the Epstein Files clarifies who they are really trying to protect: Rich, well-connected pedophiles and the people in Epstein’s orbit who are willing to aid, abet or look the other way while girls are trafficked and sexually abused.

What we are seeing playing out in real time is the government (that we fund through our taxpayer dollars) taking a posture that protects wealthy sexual predators. In the DOJ’s most recent release of the Epstein Files, redactions appear to be covering up information about the perpetrators while including names, faces, nude photos and email addresses.

As a mental health counselor, I work to help my clients heal from the trauma of childhood sexual abuse (which happens much more than many people know). Most people never publicly share their experiences. For these courageous survivors to participate in the legal process (also traumatic) and then have their personal details released to the public without their consent is terribly unjust.

Let’s call the Department of Justice what is really is: the Department of Pedophile Protection.

Melissa Ford, Tacoma

Country at a tipping point

In 2025, I wrote a letter regarding President Trump’s aggressive immigration plans. Some people felt uncomfortable but no one was outraged. Over the last year, we have witnessed increasing escalations. Undocumented and legal immigrants have been detained and deported without a warrant or hearing. More than 30 people have died in ICE custody. US citizens have been attacked, pulled from their homes and automobiles without cause, and as we witnessed, killed for peacefully protesting.

The government’s agenda is no longer about immigration. Immigrants are still the justification for actions by ICE and federal agents. However, every decision is about power, chaos and domination.

What we have witnessed in Minnesota isn’t an anomaly. The government is developing a playbook for the country. We are at a tipping point. Freedom or Fascism. Rule of Law or Dictatorship. How can we as individuals make a difference? Everyday activities matter. Standing on a corner protesting; writing postcards; contacting our representative; donating to a food bank; showing kindness to a neighbor; engaging in conversation. The smallest gesture makes a difference. We will not be bullied or forgo our rights. Together we will stand up for our constitution and our humanity, one action at a time.

Sharon Noble, Bainbridge Island

Nazi aesthetic is purposeful

Gregory Bovino, who loves to strut around in his Nazi-ish overcoat, tried to stop the ICE officers who shot Alex Pretti 10 times being placed on administrative leave while an investigation is carried out. In fact, he moved them to another city “for their protection,” and MN authorities, including the police, are having to fight for a real investigation. Any legitimate law enforcement agency would immediately suspend the officers involved while the shooting is thoroughly investigated.

Any legitimate law enforcement agency would not be hiding Jonathan Ross, who shot Renee Good three times as she tried to drive away. So please. Spare me the, “You need to do what law enforcement says to do.”

ICE is operating like the gestapo, knowing they can get away with atrocities. They are not “law enforcement.” They are masked, cowardly thugs, operating viciously with abandon. They have overwhelmed Minneapolis-St. Paul. If they do these things publicly, I shudder to think how they operate in private. This is why so many of us will continue to strongly speak out against ICE.

Mary J. Bradford, Tacoma