Congress Approves Release of Epstein Files, Bill Set for President Trump
WASHINGTON D.C. – In a significant legislative victory for transparency and accountability, the United States Congress has overwhelmingly approved the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a bill mandating the release of government documents pertaining to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The measure, passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate on November 18, 2025, now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk, with the President having indicated his intention to sign it into law. This development marks the culmination of a prolonged and often contentious effort to make public the sensitive records surrounding Epstein’s activities and his alleged network. The Epstein Files Transparency Act is poised to bring unprecedented scrutiny to these long-held secrets.
A Bipartisan Crusade for Transparency and the Epstein Files
The path to congressional approval for the Epstein Files Transparency Act was far from smooth, marked by months of resistance from some Republican leadership and initial skepticism from President Trump himself. However, a determined bipartisan coalition in the House, led by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA), successfully utilized a discharge petition – a parliamentary maneuver to force a vote on stalled legislation. This effort garnered significant support, eventually securing the necessary 218 signatures to bring the bill to the floor for a vote. The House ultimately passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act with a near-unanimous vote of 427-1, with Representative Clay Higgins (R-LA) casting the sole dissenting vote, citing concerns about the potential release of information on innocent individuals.
Following the House’s decisive action, the Senate moved swiftly to ensure the bill’s passage. By unanimous consent, the Senate agreed to pass the legislation as soon as it arrived from the House, effectively fast-tracking it towards the President’s desk. This bipartisan agreement underscores the growing momentum behind the demand for disclosure and the importance of the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
President Trump’s About-Face on the Epstein Files Transparency Act
President Donald Trump’s position on the release of the Epstein files underwent a notable shift in the lead-up to the congressional vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Initially, the President had characterized efforts to release the documents as a “hoax” orchestrated by Democrats and expressed opposition to the legislation. However, as it became clear that the bill possessed substantial bipartisan backing and was on the verge of congressional approval, President Trump reversed his stance. He publicly urged House Republicans to vote in favor of the bill, stating that “we have nothing to hide” and affirmed his intent to sign it into law if presented with the opportunity. This reversal is seen by many as a concession to the overwhelming pressure from lawmakers and the public for the unsealed Epstein records.
Mandates of the Epstein Files Transparency Act
The newly approved legislation compels the Department of Justice (DOJ) to publish all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in its possession that relate to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. This includes materials related to Ghislaine Maxwell case, flight logs, travel records, and any individuals, including government officials, named or referenced in connection with the case. The DOJ is permitted to withhold certain information, such as the personal details of victims or materials that could jeopardize an active federal investigation. However, the Epstein Files Transparency Act explicitly prohibits withholding information based on concerns of “embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity”. The DOJ will also be required to report to Congress on the categories of information released and withheld, along with details of any redactions made as part of the DOJ Epstein investigation into the matter.
Background and Broader Implications for Accountability
For years, advocates, including many of Epstein’s survivors, have campaigned for the unsealing of these documents, seeking a comprehensive reckoning with the crimes committed and the extent of the network that facilitated them. The release of these files is widely viewed as a critical step toward accountability for Epstein, potentially shedding light on his powerful connections and the alleged cover-ups that may have occurred under various administrations. The controversy surrounding the Epstein case has been trending in public discourse for some time, and this legislative action is expected to bring further scrutiny and revelations. The news represents a significant moment in the ongoing quest for transparency concerning high-profile cases involving alleged abuse and exploitation, fueled by the promise of the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
What Happens Next with the Epstein Files Transparency Act
With congressional approval secured, the Epstein Files Transparency Act is now formally on its way to President Trump’s desk. His signature is expected to trigger the DOJ’s mandated release of the files within 30 days. This unfolding news is being closely watched, as the public anticipates the potential impact of these disclosures on individuals and institutions involved, and seeks closure through these crucial Jeffrey Epstein documents.
