The push to release Jeffrey Epstein’s investigative files is closer than ever.
One day after the House passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act in a 427–1 vote, the Senate signaled it would approve the bill as soon as it arrives. If signed by President Donald Trump, the law will require the Justice Department to publicly release key documents tied to Epstein’s crimes and alleged network of powerful associates.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the bipartisan effort. He said victims have “waited far too long” and called for full transparency in the case.
Trump Reverses Course
Since returning to office, Trump has faced growing pressure over why his administration resisted releasing Epstein-related records.
For months, he dismissed demands for disclosure as “a Democrat hoax.” Once it became clear that Congress had the votes to pass the bill without him, Trump changed direction.
He announced he would not block the release and encouraged Republicans to stop delaying the vote. This shift now allows many of his supporters to back the bill. Some claim they only want to “move on” from what they call a political distraction.
Only One ‘No’ Vote
Out of 435 House members, only Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana voted against the bill.
He argued that public release could expose private information about victims, witnesses, or people never charged with crimes.
Other Republicans raised similar concerns but still voted yes after pressure from voters, advocacy groups, and trafficking survivors. Even House Speaker Mike Johnson, who tried to stop the vote for months, eventually supported the bill once passage became unavoidable.
How the Fight Escalated
The battle intensified after the FBI and Justice Department claimed they had no more information to release.
This contradicted earlier statements from Trump officials who promised more details once he returned to office.
In response, a small group of conservative lawmakers joined Democrats and forced the bill to the floor.
Rep. Ro Khanna called it a “long-overdue reckoning for the Epstein class.” He said survivors pushed lawmakers to finally expose how the abuse continued for decades.
New Investigation Sparks Debate
Although Trump now backs the release of the files, he also ordered a new investigation focused only on Democrats’ ties to Epstein. Critics argue this could turn a human rights case into a partisan weapon.
Recently released emails reviewed by Congress added more controversy. Epstein claimed Trump “knew about the girls,” though it is unclear what he meant. The White House says the emails prove nothing. Attorney General Pam Bondi has now appointed a prosecutor to lead Trump’s requested investigation.
Survivors Demand Accountability, Not Politics
Survivors and anti-trafficking advocates warn both parties not to use Epstein’s case for political gain.
At a press conference, survivor Haley Robson urged leaders to put victims first.
“This is a human issue, not a political agenda. Exploitation should never be protected by silence or power.”
Protests continue as advocates demand immediate release of the files.
On Monday night, activists projected an image of Epstein and Trump on the Justice Department building with the message: “Release the files now.”
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