Trump’s U-Turn: Release of Epstein Investigation Files Congress Set to Vote on Major Epstein Records Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Epstein Files Transparency Act is headed for a vote in the United States House of Representatives after Donald Trump unexpectedly reversed his prior opposition and urged Republicans to support the measure.
The bill would compel the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all files related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal investigation, including documents previously withheld.
Trump Says “We Have Nothing to Hide”
On Sunday night, Trump posted on his platform that House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide.
He called the issue a Democrat hoax and stated that it was time for the GOP to refocus on economic and national priorities.
Despite his previous efforts to block the release, the president indicated he would sign the legislation if it reached his desk.
What the Bill Does: Inside the Epstein Files Transparency Act
Introduced in July 2025 by Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massi (R-KY).
Uses a discharge petition mechanism to force a House vote once 218 signatures are secured.
Requires the DOJ to publicly disclose all files related to Epstein’s investigation, except where necessary redactions protect victims or ongoing investigations.
Aims to address secrecy concerns by forbidding agencies from withholding documents simply for embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.
Why the Reversal Happened: Political Pressure Mounts
With over 218 signatures collected on the petition, the House was set to vote and the bill’s passage in the chamber appeared near certain.
Trump’s sudden change of stance is viewed as a strategic move amid internal GOP fractures and growing bipartisan backing for transparency.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said the vote should help address allegations of Trump’s ties to Epstein.
Trump’s Connection to Epstein Under Renewed Scrutiny
While Trump has maintained his friendship with Epstein ended years ago and denies involvement in any wrongdoing, recent documents released by a House committee show emails from Epstein referencing Trump knew about the girls, raising fresh questions.
The timing of the reversal suggests both a response to political pressure and a move to shift attention away from the topic ahead of upcoming elections.
What Happens Next: Senate, Release and Fallout
If the House passes the measure, the bill would move to the United States Senate, where its future is uncertain despite Republican control.
Legal experts note that even if passed, agencies like the DOJ could still delay releasing full records by citing ongoing investigations or national-security concerns.
Advocates for transparency warn that delay tactics could undermine confidence in oversight and accountability.
Why It Matters for U.S. Politics and Accountability
Credibility and legacy: Trump’s flip impacts how voters and historians may judge his stance on transparency and his connections to powerful interests.
Congressional oversight: The move underscores Congress’s role in demanding accountability and its ability to force votes even against presidential preference.
Public trust: The release of Epstein-related documents could shift public perceptions of how elite individuals and institutions are held to account.
