House Democrats Investigate DOJ Handling of Missing Epstein Files

Investigation announcement into 'missing Epstein files related to Trump' scores high on distraction (B=31.93) but low on constitutional damage (A=9.16, D=-22.77). A-score: Rule_of_law (3) for potential evidence mishandling, corruption (3) for alleged suppression, election (2) for Trump connection, separation (2) for congressional oversight, capture (2) for DOJ accountability concerns. Norm_erosion_only mechanism applies 0.6 modifier - this is oversight activity, not concrete institutional damage. Severity reduced (0.9/1.0/0.95) as investigation is preliminary with no proven violations. B-score: Layer1 extremely high - outrage_bait (9) combining Epstein scandal with Trump and 'missing files', media_friendliness (8) for sensational elements, meme_ability (6) for conspiracy theory fuel. Layer2 strong - pattern_match (9) fits partisan investigation narrative, mismatch (8) between announcement gravity and actual evidence presented, timing (7) politically convenient. Intentionality (12/15) very high: Trump name, Epstein invocation, 'missing files' framing, investigation announcement format all maximize attention. Single article source, narrow population affected, no concrete mechanism of constitutional harm beyond oversight function.