On Jan. 20, 2026, a CNN panel sparked backlash over the Trump administration’s delayed release of Jeffrey Epstein files, with critics condemning the lack of transparency in a case tied to child sex trafficking.

On January 20, 2026, CNN aired a contentious panel discussion over the Trump administration’s failure to release the remaining Jeffrey Epstein files, more than a month after a court-ordered deadline. Scott Jennings dismissed public concern, telling viewers not to “get our knickers in a twist,” prompting Leigh McGowan to sharply rebuke him, calling the tone dismissive and inappropriate given the allegations of a large-scale child sex trafficking network. McGowan emphasized the gravity of the delay, the lack of transparency, and the potential for powerful figures to be shielded by redactions. The exchange highlighted growing scrutiny over the Justice Department’s noncompliance and broader concerns about accountability, transparency, and the handling of sensitive cases involving sexual violence.