Attorney General Todd Blanche is facing fierce backlash from attorney and independent journalist Katie Phang after he filed an appeal against a judge’s ruling that ordered the release of documents related to the Epstein case.

Phang, who initiated a lawsuit against Blanche in April, publicly criticized him during an Instagram video posted on Thursday. Her fiery remarks came in response to his appeal filed on August 24, which sought to challenge a preliminary injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan back in June.

In her video, Phang called out Blanche’s actions, stating, “So I’m going to say it again in really, really basic terms for you, Todd Blanche. Just some free legal advice. Okay?”

She pressed him on the clarity of the judge’s order, questioning his legal strategy. “He either granted the motion or he didn’t,” Phang stated, emphasizing the pressure mounting on Blanche to comply.

At the core of the issue is whether Blanche’s appeal holds any merit, with his court notice stating that the potential for the June order to be appealed remains “inconclusive.”

Phang didn’t hold back, asking pointedly, “If he didn’t grant the motion, then what the f— are you appealing?” Her assertive questioning illuminated the confusion surrounding Blanche’s legal maneuvering.

Meanwhile, Judge Sullivan has refused multiple requests from Blanche for stays on his rulings. Just this Thursday, the Justice Department filed for another one.

In her critique, Phang warned Blanche: “If you don’t get a stay from Judge Sullivan or from the appellate court, it’s not stopping s—.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Phang pointed out that Blanche has not yet filed an answer to her complaint, arguing that his inaction amounts to a concession of her claims.

“You blew the deadline and you’re basically in default,” Phang asserted, calling into question the Attorney General’s grasp of the legal proceedings.

Judge Sullivan has echoed Phang’s sentiments, noting earlier this summer that by failing to respond, Blanche effectively conceded the merit of her arguments.

Underlying this legal battle is the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the Justice Department to make specific documents public by December 19, 2025. Although Blanche asserted that the department had fulfilled its obligations back in January, crucial documents continue to elude public scrutiny.

On Thursday, the Justice Department did provide a redaction log, yet Blanche still withholds handwritten notes from four FBI interviews, citing concerns over victim protection.

During a hearing on August 13, Judge Sullivan signaled his frustration, cautioning Justice Department lawyers about the potential for contempt of court should they continue to ignore compliance with his orders.

“The public has a right to know what the hell is going on in this case,” Sullivan declared, emphasizing the role of transparency in matters involving the high-profile Epstein scandal.

Phang’s browbeating of Blanche did not conclude without a parting shot, stating, “Either way, you look dumb.” Her remarks encapsulated the growing discontent regarding how this case is being handled.

The ongoing struggle surrounding the Epstein files highlights a critical test of accountability within the Justice Department, as well as the demand for transparency in legal proceedings that have profound implications for victims seeking justice.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes will remain on both the court’s response to Blanche’s appeal and the pressing matter of document release, marking a significant chapter in the continuing saga of the Epstein case.