Trump Reverses His Previous Position
Donald Trump now calls on House Republicans to support the release of the Epstein files. On Truth Social, he writes that his party has “nothing to hide.” His reversal comes as many Republicans signal willingness to break ranks. The House plans a vote this week on a bill that would force the Justice Department to publish the documents. Supporters expect enough votes in the House, though the Senate outcome remains uncertain. Trump would need to sign the measure if both chambers approve it.
Bipartisan Support Gains Strength
Democrats and several Republicans continue to back the legislation. Co-sponsor Thomas Massie predicts that up to 100 Republicans could vote in favor. The Epstein Files Transparency Act directs the Justice Department to release all unclassified records linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Trump comments after returning from Florida and highlights thousands of pages already made public. He names several prominent Democrats and stresses that the House Oversight Committee may access all legally allowed materials. He urges Republicans to “stay focused.”
High-Profile Democrats Face Renewed Scrutiny
Trump mentions Bill Clinton after the Justice Department confirms new inquiries into Epstein’s ties to major banks and leading Democrats. Recent releases also reference Reid Hoffman and Larry Summers. A Summers aide said in 2023 that Summers regretted any contact after Epstein’s conviction. Hoffman states he never acted as a client and only raised funds for MIT. He urges Trump to proceed with the release. Trump says he will ask Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to examine Epstein’s connections to Clinton and others. Clinton denies any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
Document Releases Escalate Political Tensions
Trump’s reversal follows the release of three email exchanges by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee. The messages involve Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Some emails mention Trump, including a 2011 note describing hours spent at Epstein’s home. Republicans respond with a release of 20,000 additional documents. They accuse Democrats of cherry-picking files to harm Trump. The House then schedules a vote on a broader release of Epstein-related material.
GOP Divisions Deepen
Trump repeats his claim that the controversy reflects a politically driven “hoax.” His remarks follow statements from the House speaker, who says a vote could settle questions about Trump’s past ties. Trump also escalates a public feud with Marjorie Taylor Greene. He calls her “wacky” and later labels her a “traitor.” Greene questions whether Trump still prioritizes the country and criticizes his handling of the files.
Survivors Push for Complete Transparency
Epstein survivors and the family of Virginia Giuffre urge Congress to support full disclosure. They remind lawmakers of their duty to the public. Their letter asks members to imagine similar harm affecting their own families. They warn that voters will remember each decision during the next election.
