In a rare bipartisan move, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act Tuesday with a near-unanimous vote of 427 to 1. The landmark legislation compels the Department of Justice to release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, his convicted accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, and associated individuals involved in the criminal enterprises tied to Epstein.
The single dissenting vote came from Republican Representative Clay Higgins of Louisiana, who voiced concerns about the bill’s potential to undermine criminal justice procedures and harm innocent people, including witnesses and family members.
The bill, championed by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), follows months of intense political battles. Initially opposed fiercely by then-President Donald Trump and some GOP leadership, Trump’s unexpected endorsement over the weekend helped propel the bill to an overwhelming victory. He stated he would sign the bill if it successfully passes the Senate.
Survivors of Epstein’s sex trafficking network were present at the Capitol during the vote, calling for transparency and justice. The legislation excludes victims’ names and any material involving child sex abuse to protect privacy and dignity.
The measure now moves to the Senate, where there is debate about imposing additional restrictions or guardrails on what can be disclosed. Proponents urge the Senate to approve the bill without dilution to ensure full transparency.
This vote marks a significant moment in the ongoing effort to uncover the full scope of Epstein’s crimes and expose any broader networks involved. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had initially resisted bringing the bill to a vote, eventually supported its passage amid growing bipartisan pressure.
The release of these files could shed new light on Epstein’s extensive operations and associated individuals, further fueling investigations and public scrutiny.