Trump Makes a Sudden Policy Turn
Donald Trump now urges House Republicans to vote for the release of the Epstein files. He writes on Truth Social that his party has “nothing to hide.” His reversal comes as many Republicans signal they may break ranks. The House plans a vote this week on a bill that would force the Justice Department to publish the documents. Supporters expect enough votes in the House, though the Senate’s position remains uncertain. Trump must approve the measure if both chambers pass it.
Support Builds Across Party Lines
Democrats and several Republicans back the legislation. Co-sponsor Thomas Massie predicts up to 100 Republicans could vote in favor. The Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the release of all unclassified records tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Trump comments after returning from Florida and highlights thousands of pages already made public. He names several prominent Democrats and emphasizes that the House Oversight Committee may access all legally allowed materials. He urges Republicans to “stay focused.”
Prominent Democrats Face Renewed Examination
Trump cites Bill Clinton after the Justice Department confirms new inquiries into Epstein’s connections with major banks and influential Democrats. Recent documents also reference Reid Hoffman and Larry Summers. A Summers aide said in 2023 that Summers regretted any contact after Epstein’s conviction. Hoffman states he never acted as a client and only raised funds for MIT. He urges Trump to move ahead with the release. Trump says he will ask Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to investigate Epstein’s ties to Clinton and others. Clinton denies any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
Document Releases Heighten Political Tensions
Trump’s shift follows the release of three email exchanges published by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee. The messages involve Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Some emails reference Trump, including a 2011 message describing hours spent at Epstein’s home. Republicans respond with 20,000 additional documents. They accuse Democrats of selecting files to damage Trump. The House then schedules a vote on a broader release of Epstein-related records.
Internal GOP Conflicts Intensify
Trump repeats his claim that the controversy represents a politically motivated “hoax.” His remarks follow statements by the House speaker, who says a vote could resolve 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 striking their own families. They warn that voters will remember each decision in the next election.
