Congress Moves to Release Epstein Files Amid Political Turmoil

Wed Nov 19 2025 20:40:32 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a historic vote, the U.S. Congress has passed a bill requiring the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, sparking a mix of support and dissent among lawmakers, including President Trump’s sudden endorsement of the measure.

The U.S. Congress has overwhelmingly agreed to push for the release of investigative files on Jeffrey Epstein, with the House voting 427-1 in favor. Many lawmakers support the measure, citing the need for transparency, while others, including President Trump, initially opposed it before reversing their stance. Critics argue that releasing the files could harm innocent individuals and interfere with ongoing investigations. Survivors of Epstein’s abuse have strongly advocated for the disclosure, highlighting the need for accountability and justice.

The U.S. Congress has made a historic decision, passing a bill that mandates the release of the Department of Justice's files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. With a significant bipartisan vote of 427-1 in the House of Representatives, the legislation represents a crucial step towards transparency concerning Epstein's criminal activities.

The Senate is expected to pass the bill soon after receiving it, paving the way for President Donald Trump to sign it into law. Trump, who initially opposed the legislation, has shifted his position in response to pressure from his supporters, indicating his support for the release of these controversial files.

During a recent session at the Capitol, survivors of Epstein's abuse voiced their support for the bill, describing the lengthy struggle for justice as institutional betrayal. They assert that revealing the files will hold accountable those complicit in Epstein's operations and help ensure that victims' stories are heard.

The files to be released include a trove of documents from criminal investigations, containing record transcripts, correspondence, and various materials gathered during raids. This could provide critical insight into Epstein's networks and operations, implicating powerful figures in society.

Despite the overwhelming support for the bill, concerns have been raised about the potential ramifications of releasing sensitive information. Republican lawmaker Clay Higgins was the lone dissenting vote due to fears of unintended consequences for innocent individuals mentioned in the documents. In contrast, House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had previously labeled the call for transparency a Democrat hoax, voted in favor of the bill.

Notably, this move comes as scrutiny grows over the connections of Epstein to several prominent figures, including Trump himself. While Trump has maintained that he severed ties with Epstein long before his legal troubles began, the recent release of documents continues to stoke speculation and debate about his associations.

In a surprising twist, pro-Trump legislators like Marjorie Taylor Greene have taken a significant stance in support of the bill, framing it as advocating for survivor justice. This unexpected shift highlights ongoing divisions within the Republican party regarding this complex issue, revealing how the Epstein saga is continuing to shape U.S. politics in divergent ways.

As the bill advances, it aims not just for the release of the files, but also seeks to assure Epstein's victims and advocates that their voices will finally be acknowledged in the pursuit of accountability.