President Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche, is under increased examination due to a lawsuit filed by New Mexico. The lawsuit accuses the Justice Department of withholding records related to Jeffrey Epstein’s activities at Zorro Ranch outside Santa Fe. Blanche, acting attorney general, and the DOJ are defendants. This legal challenge arises as Blanche’s nomination progresses through the Senate. Senators question the DOJ’s management of Epstein-related records.
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, a Democrat, claims that federal obstruction has hindered state investigations into potential crimes at Epstein’s New Mexico estate. The DOJ rejects these allegations, citing court orders that prevent disclosure of information identifying victims. “Federal court orders prohibit carte blanche disclosure of victim-identifying information, and New Mexico has provided no lawful basis to justify such sweeping disclosures,” stated the DOJ. The department expressed willingness to assist the state’s investigation, compliant with legal and court order constraints.
“New Mexico has a duty to protect survivors and investigate crimes committed in our state so that perpetrators can be held accountable,” stated Torrez. “We asked the Department of Justice to cooperate by providing access to records that may be critical to identifying victims, witnesses, and additional criminal conduct at Zorro Ranch.”
Newsweek reached out to the DOJ and New Mexico AG via email for comments on Wednesday afternoon.
New Mexico Jeffrey Epstein Lawsuit: Details
The lawsuit demands a court order compelling the DOJ to release unredacted records related to Epstein and his Zorro Ranch property. State officials argue that these materials are critical in identifying more victims, witnesses, and potential criminal activities within New Mexico.
New Mexico prosecutors claim ignored, denied, or delayed requests for information. They assert that in 2019, federal officials committed to cooperation after concluding the federal Epstein investigation, but cooperation was incomplete. The state highlights references to both Zorro Ranch and New Mexico in publicly released Epstein records.
New Mexico seeks documents about alleged abuse at the ranch and records linked to Epstein’s associates. These records are believed to be crucial to ongoing investigations.
“Their delay is actively hurting our criminal investigation and delaying justice Epstein survivors deserve,” added Torrez.
New Mexico AG Raúl Torrez
Since assuming office in 2023, Torrez has spearheaded efforts to revisit allegations tied to Epstein’s ranch. He calls for renewed examination of crimes that might have occurred in the state, stating that New Mexico was overlooked in previous federal probes. Torrez insists on the need for state authorities to pursue leads connected to Epstein and affiliates.
Zorro Ranch Background
For over 20 years, Zorro Ranch was Epstein’s New Mexico hub. Bought in 1993, the 10,000-acre estate featured a mansion, private runway, and expansive lands. It remains one of several properties tied to Epstein.
Todd Blanche’s Confirmation Path
Blanche’s nomination progressed through the Senate Judiciary Committee with a party-line vote, overcoming a major procedural obstacle. His confirmation lacks certainty as some Republican senators express concerns about DOJ policies and Epstein-related records handling. Senate leadership and floor scheduling will determine the vote timing.
Blanche could receive a vote soon if Republican support persists, though ongoing controversy on Epstein files may increase scrutiny.
Epstein’s Will and Financial Implications
Days before his August 2019 death, Epstein signed a will transferring substantial wealth into a trust. The trust led to legal conflicts among creditors and Epstein’s accusers. The will’s public existence complicates asset distribution efforts and has sparked sustained legal and political examination. Epstein’s finances, associates, and activities at properties like Zorro Ranch continue to face attention after his death.