JD Vance Announces Epstein Files Investigation on Pizza, Grape Soda References

Vice President JD Vance spoke at a Turning Point USA event on April 14, 2026, about reviewing Jeffrey Epstein's files. He described an email in the files that mentioned 'pizzas or grape sodas' in a context he found unusual. Vance said the reference reminded him of the Pizzagate theory.

" He added that his reaction was to investigate such references. Vance emphasized the need to examine evidence of sexual assault or misconduct regardless of the individuals involved. The Pizzagate theory emerged in late 2016 following the release of emails from John Podesta, Hillary Clinton's campaign chairman, by WikiLeaks.

The theory involved interpretations of terms like 'pizza' and 'hot dogs' in those emails as potential code words for child exploitation. An FBI intelligence bulletin from that period listed 'pizza' as slang for a girl and 'hot dog' for a boy in pedophile contexts. , was central to the theory due to mentions in the emails.

The theory led to public attention and an incident in 2016 where a man entered the pizzeria with a rifle, believing it housed a child trafficking operation. No evidence supported those claims, and the incident resulted in the shooter's arrest. Recent releases of Epstein documents have included hundreds of references to 'pizza' that appear unrelated to food items.

Mike Benz analyzed the files and noted repeated uses of the word 'pizza' in ways that suggest possible coding. Benz's comments were shared in a February 5, 2026, social media post. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared on Fox News on April 14, 2026, to address the Epstein files.

He stated that the Department of Justice has released all relevant documents after reviewing six million pages. " Blanche added that if new information emerges, it would be made public. He noted that the review included millions of pages not directly related to Epstein.

Congress has access to unredacted materials if lawmakers request to examine them. The Epstein files stem from investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, a financier convicted of sex trafficking who died in 2019. Epstein's network involved high-profile individuals, and document releases have occurred periodically since 2019.

The Department of Justice announced in April 2026 that it has completed all releases. Vance's pledge to investigate specific references contrasts with the DOJ's position. This development occurs amid ongoing public interest in Epstein's case and related theories.

Further actions by the vice president's office or Congress could determine if additional probes occur.