Former President Donald Trump shifted his stance on the release of Jeffrey Epstein–related files, surprising many Republicans in Washington. He urged House Republicans to vote for the bill after previously lobbying against it. His reversal came as party support for the measure grew and lawmakers predicted a major victory in the House.
Trump said the GOP should “move on” and refocus on core issues. The shift followed weeks of tension inside the party, including a public feud with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, once one of Trump’s strongest allies.
The bill requires the Justice Department to release all Epstein files, including communications about the federal investigation and Epstein’s death. Information related to victims or ongoing cases can be redacted. Rep. Thomas Massie and Rep. Ro Khanna led the effort, using a rare discharge petition to force a vote.
GOP leaders expect strong backing for the bill, despite Trump’s earlier resistance. Massie said Republicans who oppose the measure risk long-term political damage.
Democrats also accuse the GOP of delaying tactics during the petition process. New documents have intensified public interest, including a 2019 Epstein email claiming Trump “knew about the girls,” which the White House called a targeted smear.
Even with expected House approval, the bill faces an uncertain path in the Senate.
