US lawmakers are set to advance a bill that would release government records on millionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The bill, known as the Epstein Files Transparency Act, is gaining support in the House of Representatives, despite opposition from President Trump. The proposed law would compel the publication of unclassified documents related to Epstein’s operations and death in custody.
After weeks of resistance, Trump gave in when it became clear that over 100 Republicans were ready to defy him. The bill is expected to pass in the House, where lawmakers argue the public deserves answers about Epstein’s crimes, which allegedly involved over 1,000 victims. Pro-Trump activists argue that releasing the files would expose powerful figures, including Democrats, who have long been shielded from scrutiny.
Trump, who had previously opposed releasing the files, reversed his stance in a social media post on Sunday. He said Republicans should vote to release the files, claiming, “we have nothing to hide.” However, this about-face came after pressure from his own party, revealing cracks in his support base. The move also followed a revolt from Republicans who had been pushing for transparency.
At the time of his death, Epstein was facing charges related to sex trafficking, particularly of underage girls. Despite the FBI’s assertion that there was no reason to revisit the case, the push for transparency has only intensified. The discharge petition forcing the vote gained significant support from both Democrats and Republicans, including four GOP members, despite leadership’s opposition.
The bill will now move to the Senate, where it requires 60 votes for passage, meaning at least 13 Republicans would need to join Democrats. If the bill passes, Trump could still veto it. However, that would require a two-thirds override in both chambers, a challenging hurdle with the midterm elections approaching.
