US House expected to approve resolution to release Epstein files

The US House of Representatives is poised to pass a resolution demanding the Justice Department release the so-called ‘Epstein files,’ a collection of documents gathered during investigations into the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. House Speaker Mike Johnson anticipates strong bipartisan support for the measure, which is scheduled for a vote on Tuesday. This development follows former President Donald Trump’s recent reversal of his stance, now urging Republican lawmakers to back the resolution. However, the release of the files remains uncertain, as the measure must also clear the Senate. Survivors of Epstein’s abuse are expected to testify on Capitol Hill in support of the resolution. On Monday evening, the advocacy group World Without Exploitation projected images of survivors onto buildings in Washington, accompanied by the message: ‘Congress, release all of the files.’ Lawmakers from both parties believe the documents could implicate influential figures in Epstein’s crimes. While some Epstein-related materials have been made public in recent years, including thousands of emails released last week by the House Oversight Committee, the full scope of the files remains undisclosed. Trump, who initially opposed the resolution, now claims he would sign it into law if approved by Congress, though he cautioned against excessive public discussion. Critics, including Representative Robert Garcia, argue that Trump has the authority to release the files immediately. Meanwhile, concerns persist that the Senate may alter the resolution, potentially delaying its passage. Attorney General Pam Bondi has also initiated federal investigations into several high-profile individuals mentioned in the released documents.