The 11th Hour with Stephanie Ruhle 'Make me?' DOJ flouts Epstein Transparency Act, angering Congress
Feb 17, 2026
Susan Glasser, staff writer at The New Yorker and political analyst, breaks down institutional accountability and political fallout. She examines DOJ transparency around the Epstein files and options for congressional enforcement. She also discusses the partial DHS shutdown’s impacts and how political tone could shape upcoming campaigns.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Criminal Charges Unlikely; Civil Paths Remain
- DOJ officials signaled few new charges are expected despite survivors' calls for prosecutions.
- Civil lawsuits and state probes (e.g., New Mexico) remain viable paths for accountability.
DHS Mini-Shutdown Hinges On Political Pressure
- The DHS shutdown targets ICE and Border Patrol funding over aggressive tactics, affecting many agencies and workers.
- Political leverage and public pressure (e.g., TSA service impacts) will determine how long the partial shutdown lasts.
Funding Timing Lowers Urgency To Resolve Shutdown
- The shutdown could persist because DHS already received large funding in reconciliation, reducing urgency for a full-year deal.
- TSA pay schedules mean real disruptions may not hit until mid-March, extending the stalemate.
