The Epstein Files: Unveiling the Secrets Behind a Scandal

Fri Nov 21 2025 09:15:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A deep dive into the Epstein files, revealing the growing pressure for transparency within the Trump administration over investigations into Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, and what the public can expect from the newly approved release of documents.

The recent approval for the release of the Epstein files marks a significant moment in the ongoing investigations into the late financier Jeffrey Epstein's illicit activities. Under pressure from various political factions, President Trump has authorized Congress to publish the findings of federal investigations. The Justice Department is set to release a vast trove of documents, although sensitive materials involving victims' identities will remain sealed. As the public awaits these revelations, interest remains heightened over the connections between Epstein and notable figures, including Trump himself.

What do we know about the Epstein files?

The words Epstein files have been haunting the administration of US President Donald Trump for months as it grapples with a growing crisis over the crimes of late convicted sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Pressure was building from Trump's own supporters and from voices within his own Republican Party for more transparency on what the federal investigations into Epstein uncovered.

After weeks of resisting release, Trump reversed course and urged Republicans to vote to open the Epstein files to public scrutiny. Both chambers of Congress approved a measure that compels the US justice department to release all files pertaining to its investigation into Epstein.

The following day, Trump announced in a social media post that he had signed a bill that approved the release of the files. Now, the justice department has 30 days to release all the files - except for those that relate to an active criminal investigation, identify victims of Epstein's abuse or invade their privacy, or contain images of physical and child sex abuse, death, or injury.

What are the Epstein files?

In 2008, Epstein reached a plea deal with prosecutors after the parents of a 14-year-old girl told police in Florida that Epstein had molested their daughter at his Palm Beach home. Photos of girls were found throughout the house, and he was convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor, for which he was registered as a sex offender. He escaped a heavy jail sentence as a result of the deal.

Eleven years later, he was charged with running a network of underage girls for sex. He died in prison while awaiting trial and his death was ruled a suicide.

These two criminal investigations amassed a vast trove of documents including transcripts of interviews with victims and witnesses, and items confiscated from raids on his various properties.

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) found over 300 gigabytes of data and physical evidence in its databases, hard drives and other storage, according to a 2025 memo from the justice department. While some files likely include materials gathered by prosecutors at the federal and Florida levels to investigate Epstein, the justice department says there is a large volume of images and videos of victims and other illegal child abuse material that will not be released to the public.

What has already been released on Epstein?

At various stages over the years, some materials related to Epstein have been put into the public domain. Recently, thousands of documents belonging to the Epstein estate were released by the House Oversight Committee, mostly emails. An earlier release, in September, included a birthday book containing a note to Epstein bearing Trump's name.

In February, weeks after Trump took office, the Department of Justice and the FBI released what they described as the first phase of the declassified Epstein files. A group of right-wing influencers were invited to the White House, but they were left disappointed when they realised that the 341 pages handed to them were mostly material already available.

What happens now that Trump has approved release?

The vote to release the files took place on 18 November and the bill passed 427-to-1 in the House. Once the bill passed in the lower chamber of Congress, it quickly moved to the Senate where it passed via unanimous consent. Attorney General Pam Bondi is now required to release all materials within 30 days of the law being enacted, though she can withhold information that might jeopardise an investigation or identify victims.

Who is named in the Epstein files?

While the unreleased documents' contents remain mostly unknown, Trump was informed that his name appeared in FBI documents. Existing materials mention several high-profile figures connected to Epstein, such as former Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and Elon Musk. However, it is crucial to note that being named does not imply wrongdoing.

What do we know about the Trump/Epstein relationship?

Trump and Epstein appeared to be friends for years, both being part of the same social circles. Previously released files show that Trump's details were in Epstein's contacts. According to Trump, their relationship soured in the early 2000s, prior to Epstein's arrests.

Why are people so interested in Epstein?

Interest in Epstein stems from various theories and beliefs about the cover-up of his activities, alongside questions regarding the leniency of his past sentences and the circumstances surrounding his death. With many unanswered questions and public intrigue, the release of files is highly anticipated.