US lawmakers are expected on Tuesday to advance a bill mandating the public release of government records on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, despite strong resistance from former President Donald Trump.
After weeks of behind-the-scenes lobbying to stop the measure, Trump abruptly withdrew his opposition on Sunday as it became clear that nearly 100 Republican lawmakers were prepared to support the legislation.
The proposed Epstein Files Transparency Act would require the publication of all unclassified documents related to federal investigations into Epstein, his network, and his 2019 death in custody—an event officially ruled a suicide.
Lawmakers pushing the bill argue that the American public deserves full disclosure in a case involving more than 1,000 alleged victims. Pro-Trump activists claim the files will implicate prominent Democrats, while critics say Trump’s earlier resistance raised questions about what the documents may reveal.
Trump Reverses Position
Trump, who campaigned on promises to release the files before backing away once in office, said on Sunday that House Republicans should vote for transparency because “we have nothing to hide.” He told reporters on Monday in the Oval Office that he would sign the bill if it reaches his desk.
His reversal follows a rare revolt from within Republican ranks. All House Democrats and four Republicans signed a discharge petition forcing the bill to the floor—a procedure used only when leadership attempts to block legislation.
Attempts to Halt Vote Failed
Over recent months, House Speaker Mike Johnson faced internal pressure over the issue, including a revolt that prompted him to send lawmakers home early for the summer. He also delayed for weeks the swearing-in of a Democratic lawmaker who ultimately became the decisive 218th signature needed for the petition.
The White House last week intensified its efforts to dissuade Republicans from backing the vote, appealing directly to two GOP signers. Those efforts failed, further widening rifts within the party.
Trump deepened the controversy when he withdrew his endorsement of staunch ally Marjorie Taylor Greene, who said the split “all comes down to the Epstein files.”
Scrutiny of Past Connections
Trump has denied any wrongdoing and insists he ended ties with Epstein years before the financier’s arrest. He has sought to highlight Epstein’s connections to Democratic figures such as former President Bill Clinton.
But newly surfaced emails suggesting Epstein believed Trump “knew about the girls” have renewed questions about the men’s past relationship. Other revelations include correspondence between Epstein and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, who announced Monday that he was “stepping back” from public roles following the disclosures.
Long Road Ahead for the Bill
If the House approves the bill, Democrats say they will mount an aggressive push to force a Senate vote. Passage in the Senate would require support from at least 13 Republicans to meet the 60-vote threshold.
Even if it clears both chambers, Trump would still have the option to veto the bill—setting up a potential showdown requiring a two-thirds majority in both houses to override.
Epstein was awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges at the time of his death in 2019. His earlier 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution has long been criticized as a lenient deal shaped by influential allies.
