Trump Backs Down, Epstein Files Bill Set for House Vote Amid Fierce Republican Rebellion
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In a stunning reversal, US President Donald Trump has withdrawn his opposition to a bill requiring the release of government records on Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier accused of sex trafficking. The Epstein Files Transparency Act, set for a House vote on Tuesday, aims to compel the publication of unclassified documents detailing the investigation into Epstein's operations and 2019 death in custody. The move comes after weeks of intense pressure and lobbying from lawmakers, who argue that the public deserves answers in a case involving over 1,000 alleged victims. Trump's about-face has exposed rare divisions within the Republican Party, with some lawmakers citing the president's own campaign promise to release the files. The bill's passage through the House now appears all but certain, with some 100 Republicans expected to defy Trump's opposition. However, the measure faces an uncertain future in the Senate, where it would require 60 votes to pass. Even if it clears the Senate, Trump could veto the bill, forcing a potentially difficult override in both chambers. The saga has also raised questions about Trump's own involvement with Epstein, who was accused of exploiting underage girls and young women. Fresh disclosures, including newly surfaced emails suggesting Trump may have known about Epstein's activities, have revived scrutiny of their long association. Lawmakers argue that releasing the files will provide much-needed transparency in a case that has sparked widespread outrage. "We have nothing to hide," Trump said on Monday, in an apparent attempt to salvage his position. However, his reversal has been seen as a face-saving retreat, with some lawmakers accusing him of caving to pressure from his own party. The bill's proponents, including all Democrats and four Republicans, have used an extraordinary procedural maneuver to force the vote, despite opposition from the party's House leadership. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Epstein files will continue to dominate the national conversation in the coming weeks.
