In a sweeping bipartisan vote, the House of Representatives approved legislation requiring the Justice Department to publicly release all of its records on disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, marking a historic step toward full transparency in a case that has fueled public distrust for years.
The bill — known as the Epstein Files Transparency Act — passed with overwhelming support from both parties, shortly after President Donald Trump abruptly reversed his months-long opposition and gave Republicans permission to vote for it.
Speaking to reporters before the vote, Trump denied any association with Epstein and said lawmakers “can do whatever they want.”
“I had nothing to do with Epstein,” Trump said from the Oval Office. “All I want is for people to recognize the great job that I’ve done … So I’m all for it.” The president also committed to signing the bill once it reaches his desk.
Overwhelming House Vote Follows Grassroots Pressure
The bill’s passage came after weeks of building pressure. Last week, a discharge petition forcing a floor vote crossed the 218-signature threshold — an unusual and forceful maneuver that signaled significant bipartisan frustration with delays. Four Republicans joined Democrats in signing the petition, signaling early cracks in the GOP leadership’s resistance.
Bill Heads to Senate With Uncertain Timing
The legislation now moves to the Senate, where Democrats hold 47 seats and will need the support of at least 13 Republicans to overcome a filibuster. While Senate leaders have not yet announced when the bill will be taken up, today’s lopsided House vote is expected to increase pressure on the upper chamber to act.
What the Bill Requires
The Epstein Files Transparency Act would compel the Justice Department to publish every document in its possession related to Epstein and his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell, including investigative records, communications, correspondence, and sealed materials, with limited redactions allowed for active criminal matters or the protection of victims.
Supporters argue the bill is essential for restoring public trust after decades of secrecy surrounding Epstein’s network, his plea deals, his associates, and his 2019 death in federal custody.
Looking Ahead
If the Senate approves the measure and Trump signs it as promised, the Justice Department will face an unprecedented mandate to open its files on one of the most controversial criminal figures in modern history.
For now, supporters say the House vote marks a major milestone in the long-running effort to uncover the truth about Epstein’s activities — and the systems that allowed them to continue for so long.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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