House Republicans Rally to Support Epstein Files Release Bill

U.S. lawmakers are poised to push through a bill that would mandate the release of files related to the sex trafficking investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. This week, a significant number of House Republicans are expected to defy both party leadership and President Donald Trump in a show of support for the legislation. The proposed bill would require the Justice Department to disclose all files and communications concerning Epstein, including details surrounding his death while in federal custody.

The bill’s supporters, including Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., predict a strong Republican turnout, estimating that “there could be 100 or more” votes in favor. Massie expressed his hope for a veto-proof majority when the bill is brought to the floor. Alongside Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., Massie introduced a discharge petition in July, a legislative tool that enables a majority of House members to bypass leadership and force a vote. This approach is typically challenging to execute successfully.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has previously criticized the discharge petition, attempting to limit discussions on Epstein during the legislative agenda. He sent members home early for their August recess, frustrated by the clamor for a vote on the issue. Johnson has stated that the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has been releasing information that exceeds what the discharge petition seeks to accomplish.

As the vote approaches, new documents have emerged that reignite interest in Epstein and his connections. Among these is a 2019 email from Epstein to a journalist, indicating that Trump “knew about the girls.” The White House has accused Democrats of selectively leaking this information to tarnish Trump’s reputation. Johnson has defended Trump, asserting that the president “has nothing to hide” regarding his past associations with Epstein.

Despite the tense political backdrop, Khanna has tempered expectations for the vote count, suggesting that 40 or more Republicans may join their efforts. He emphasized the need for accountability beyond Trump, calling for a meeting between the president and survivors of Epstein’s abuse. Some survivors are expected to hold a news conference at the Capitol on Tuesday, aiming to spotlight their stories.

Massie noted that Republican members who fear the repercussions of voting against the bill may face lasting political consequences, stating, “The record of this vote will last longer than Donald Trump’s presidency.” He added that this vote represents a pivotal moment for transparency regarding Epstein’s activities.

On the Republican side, Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Nancy Mace of South Carolina, and Lauren Boebert of Colorado joined Massie in supporting the discharge petition. Greene has publicly expressed confusion regarding Trump’s criticism of her stance, asserting that the public deserves clarity on the Epstein files. She stated, “I have no idea what’s in the files. I can’t even guess. But that is the questions everyone is asking, is, why fight this so hard?”

While a vote in the House may signal momentum, the future of the bill remains uncertain in the Senate, where support from Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., will be crucial. Massie expressed hope that a strong House vote would apply pressure on Senate Republicans to act.

As discussions continue and the vote approaches, the outcome may have significant implications for transparency and accountability in the ongoing saga surrounding Epstein and his associates.