Congress Passes Epstein Files Release Bill, Awaiting Trump's Signature

Wed Nov 19 2025 04:56:29 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a decisive move, Congress has approved a bill mandating the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, paving the way for transparency as the documents head to President Trump's desk for signature.

Following overwhelming support in Congress, a bill directing the release of guidelines on Jeffrey Epstein's activities is set for President Trump's signature. The decision marks a shift in Trump's stance amidst rising public pressure. The bill includes provisions for the release of significant documentation but permits the withholding of sensitive information that could jeopardize active investigations or identify victims.

Both chambers of Congress have unanimously agreed on a bill that orders the US Justice Department to release files pertaining to sex offender financier Jeffrey Epstein. The House of Representatives passed the measure with an overwhelming 427-1 vote, while the Senate fast-tracked the decision without a formal vote.

These legislative actions come just days after President Donald Trump reversed his previous opposition, encouraging Congress to move forward with the release following public pushback from supporters.

Trump's ties to Epstein have re-emerged in the headlines after over 20,000 pages of documents were released last week, some of which mention the President. While the White House has denied any wrongdoing, the release of these documents has been a topic of significant concern.

Only one member of the House, Republican Clay Higgins of Louisiana, objected to the bill, expressing fears about the impact on innocent individuals. Trump's pivot from earlier rhetoric that criticized efforts to reveal the files to now claiming there was 'nothing to hide' has surprised many in Washington.

Notably, House Speaker Mike Johnson had previously called the initiative a Democrat hoax but voted for the release.

The expected timeline for the files to be made public was shortened following the House's compelling vote. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer utilized a unanimous consent procedure to bring the bill to a rapid conclusion.

The legislation mandates that Attorney General Pam Bondi release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days. However, Bondi retains the authority to withhold details that could compromise ongoing investigations or identify victims.

This bill is expected to arrive at Trump's desk shortly, where he is likely to sign it into law, completing a surprising turnaround in Congressional support for transparency on Epstein's dealings.

Epstein was found dead in his New York prison cell in 2019, with his death ruled as suicide while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He had previously been convicted for soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008. Numerous documents related to his crimes, including interviews with victims, are contained within the files that will be released.

The push for this transparency was spearheaded by Congress members Thomas Massie, a Republican, and Democrat Ro Khanna, who expressed the necessity of unveiling the truth regarding Epstein’s activities.

In a recent news conference, Epstein survivors urged lawmakers to support the release of the files, emphasizing the importance of accountability and justice.