House Set to Vote on Epstein File Release
The United States House of Representatives will vote next week on a measure to force the full disclosure of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA).
Johnson told reporters on Wednesday that the House intends to require the Department of Justice to release all Epstein-related records, following a bipartisan push to expedite transparency in the high-profile case.
Discharge Petition Secures Required Signatures
The vote comes after newly sworn-in Democratic Representative Adelita Grijalva (AZ) signed a discharge petition, a mechanism allowing lawmakers to bypass House leadership and bring a bill to a vote.
- The petition was co-sponsored by Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie and California Democrat Ro Khanna.
- Grijalva’s signature gave the petition the required 218 signatures to advance.
- Supporters included all 214 House Democrats and four Republicans: Massie, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert, and Nancy Mace.
The Republican-led House holds a narrow majority of 219 members, making the petition a critical tool for ensuring the vote moves forward.
Renewed Scrutiny on Trump’s Epstein Ties
The vote coincides with newly released emails from the House Oversight Committee, appearing to link President Donald Trump to Epstein.
- One email reportedly sent to Epstein’s former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, stated that Trump had “spent hours” at Epstein’s house with one victim.
- Another email suggested Epstein claimed Trump “knew about the girls.”
Trump dismissed the emails as a “hoax” on Truth Social, accusing Democrats of using the matter to deflect from criticism of the recent government shutdown.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated:
“These emails prove absolutely nothing other than the fact that President Trump did nothing wrong. This administration has done more with respect to transparency on Jeffrey Epstein than any administration ever.”
Political Context and Urgency
Speaker Johnson indicated frustration over the ongoing delays in the Epstein case, signaling a desire for an earlier-than-expected vote.
- Tennessee Republican Tim Burchett criticized the legislative process, saying it was “time to take it to the floor” and push for a vote.
- The move reflects growing bipartisan concern over transparency and congressional oversight in the Epstein investigation.
Grijalva, in her first day on Capitol Hill, pledged to continue her late father’s legacy, advocating for accountability and ensuring a “full check and balance” over the administration.
Key Takeaways
- Vote scheduled: Next week in the House to release all Epstein files.
- Bipartisan support: Discharge petition secures 218 signatures.
- Renewed scrutiny: Emails highlight possible connections between Trump and Epstein.
- Political pressure: Republican and Democratic lawmakers push for expedited transparency.
- White House response: Trump and officials dismiss new revelations as inconclusive.
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