Congress Approves Release of Epstein Investigation Files; President Trump to Sign

The U.S. Congress has passed legislation requiring the Department of Justice to release unclassified documents related to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted sex offender. The House of Representatives approved the measure with a 427-1 vote, and the Senate swiftly followed with unanimous consent. President Donald Trump has indicated he will sign the bill into law.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act mandates the DOJ to make public all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials concerning Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days. Exceptions are allowed for materials that could jeopardize active investigations, contain classified information, or include explicit depictions of child abuse. Additionally, the DOJ is required to provide Congress with a comprehensive report detailing any redactions and a list of all government officials and politically exposed persons named in the materials within 15 days of the initial release.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the department would "follow the law" and emphasized the importance of protecting victims while ensuring maximum transparency. She also mentioned that "new information" had prompted a reversal of her earlier decision to close the case, though specifics were not provided.

President Trump, who had previously opposed the release of the Epstein files, reversed his stance, stating, "We have nothing to hide, and it's time to move on from this Democrat Hoax." This shift came after bipartisan pressure from lawmakers and public demand for transparency.

Epstein, who was found dead in his jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal charges, had connections with numerous prominent figures, including President Trump. The release of these documents is anticipated to shed light on the extent of Epstein's network and the involvement of various individuals in his activities.