Epstein survivors pan Blanche meeting as dismissive, "demoralizing"
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Add Axios on Google Dani Bensky (in red) embraces Epstein survivors and family members after she finished testifying on Capitol Hill on July 16. Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images
Multiple survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse said a long-awaited meeting with attorney general nominee Todd Blanche felt more like an obligatory box to check than a substantive conversation.
The big picture: For Blanche, the meeting was a necessary step to unlock a crucial vote for his confirmation to be the nation's chief law enforcement officer. For survivors, it was a historic first in their lengthy trek for justice.
What they're saying: Annie Farmer, an accuser of Epstein and co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell said she found Blanche "abrasive, condescending, and intentionally noncommittal to survivors — a marked contrast to his public testimony during his confirmation hearing."
The other side: A DOJ spokesperson, however, described the meeting as a "productive, initial discussion" that was attended by Blanche, survivors, senior DOJ officials, FBI special agents and victim services representatives.
Catch up quick: "When it comes to the victims of this horrible man, we will never, never, not talk to victims," Blanche said during his confirmation hearing Wednesday.
Axios' Josephine Walker contributed to this report.
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