U.S. Congress Passes Bill to Release Epstein Files

In a sweeping bipartisan effort, U.S. lawmakers have cleared the way for the release of thousands of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The House of Representatives passed the bill on Tuesday with an overwhelming vote of 427-1, and the Senate followed suit with unanimous consent. The legislation now heads to President Trump’s desk, where he has pledged to sign it into law.

What will the bill do?

The bill mandates the Department of Justice to make all unclassified records, communications, and investigative materials tied to Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, publicly available within 30 days. This includes critical documents such as flight logs, internal communications, and evidence collected during two major investigations into Epstein's sex trafficking activities. However, some sensitive information, like the identities of victims or details that could jeopardize ongoing investigations, may be withheld.

What is Trump’s view on the release of the files?

Initially, President Trump had resisted calls for full transparency on the Epstein case, dismissing it as a "Democrat hoax." His stance had sparked considerable backlash, particularly from Republican lawmakers and Trump supporters who felt the president should take action. But after facing growing pressure, including from his own party, Trump reversed course. In a rare shift, he said there was "nothing to hide" and expressed support for the bill, paving the way for its eventual passage.

While the president’s backing is seen as a significant development, it was not without controversy. Some of Trump’s allies in Congress, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, had previously labeled efforts to release the files a political move against the president. Johnson, along with other Republicans, had criticized the push for transparency as a tactic to undermine Trump. However, following the House vote, Johnson joined in supporting the measure, acknowledging the mounting public demand for transparency.

Epstein files release a major victory

The bill’s passage is being hailed as a major victory for Epstein’s survivors, who have long sought justice and accountability. Advocates and survivors, including prominent figures like Annie Farmer and Jena-Lisa Jones, rallied outside the Capitol, calling for the release of the files. "We fought the president, the attorney general, the FBI director, the speaker of the House and the vice president to get this win," said Congressman Thomas Massie, one of the bill’s leading sponsors.

Epstein’s case has haunted American politics for years due to his connections to powerful figures across the globe, including former presidents, high-profile politicians, and celebrities. While some documents released in recent weeks have mentioned Trump, the president has consistently denied any involvement in Epstein's criminal activities. Last week, newly uncovered emails showed Epstein discussing Trump with his accomplice Maxwell, though no evidence of wrongdoing by the president was revealed.

Nonetheless, the scandal surrounding Epstein continues to fuel widespread conspiracy theories, particularly within certain factions of Trump’s base. As more details of Epstein’s connections to high-profile figures emerge, the push for transparency has intensified, with many demanding that the full scope of his abuse be exposed.

Looking ahead

As the bill heads to the White House, many are hopeful that the release of these files will provide long-overdue clarity and accountability for Epstein's victims. "The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, expressing optimism that the files' release will mark a new chapter in the ongoing quest for justice.

While Trump has promised to sign the bill, some remain cautious, with survivor Haley Robson questioning the motivations behind the president’s change of heart. "While I do understand that your position has changed on the Epstein files, and I’m grateful that you have pledged to sign this bill, I can’t help to be skeptical of what the agenda is," Robson said.

For now, the focus remains on the release of the Epstein files, which many hope will finally shed light on the full extent of his crimes and the powerful figures who enabled him.