Trump Reverses Position on Disclosure
Donald Trump now calls on House Republicans to back the public release of the Epstein files. He writes on Truth Social that his party has “nothing to hide.” His reversal comes as many Republicans indicate they may vote with Democrats. The House plans to vote this week on a bill requiring the Justice Department to release 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 Strengthens
Democrats and several Republicans continue to back the legislation. Co-sponsor Thomas Massie predicts up to 100 Republicans could vote in favor. The Epstein Files Transparency Act calls for the release of all unclassified materials tied 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 records. He urges Republicans to “stay focused.”
High-Profile Democrats Come Under Scrutiny
Trump cites Bill Clinton after the Justice Department confirms new inquiries into Epstein’s ties with 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 says he never acted as a client and only helped raise 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 Heighten Political Tensions
Trump’s shift follows the publication of three email exchanges released 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 20,000 additional documents. They accuse Democrats of cherry-picking material to damage Trump. The House then schedules a vote on a broader release of Epstein-related files.
Internal GOP Fractures Widen
Trump repeats his claim that the controversy reflects a politically motivated “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 Demand Transparency
Epstein survivors and the family of Virginia Giuffre urge Congress to vote for full disclosure. They remind lawmakers of their duty to the public. Their letter asks officials to imagine similar harm affecting their own families. They warn that voters will remember each decision in the next election.
