Congress Demands Transparency
In a rare show of bipartisan unity, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 427–1 to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein and his convicted accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell. The Senate approved the bill shortly after, sending it to President Trump’s desk for final signature.
Only one lawmaker, Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA), opposed the bill. In a lengthy post on X, Higgins wrote, “I have been a principled ‘NO’ on this bill from the beginning. What was wrong with the bill three months ago is still wrong today.”
The bill requires the DOJ to release the files within 30 days of being signed into law, with exceptions for survivors’ personal data and other sensitive material.
From Resistance to Endorsement
President Trump initially resisted the bill, calling the push for release a “Democrat Hoax.” However, on November 17, 2025, he reversed course and publicly urged Republicans to support the measure. Speaking to CNN, Trump said, “It’s time to move on. Let the people see what they want to see.”
This reversal came after months of pressure from survivors, advocacy groups, and lawmakers. Haley Robson, a survivor of Epstein’s abuse, told CNN’s Erin Burnett, “We have to be very honest with ourselves. … We do have a long road in front of us.” Her words echoed the frustration of many who have waited years for accountability.
Trump and Bondi Under Fire
Despite Trump’s late endorsement, analysts say the president and Attorney General Pam Bondi are facing intense scrutiny. Both had previously promised to release the files but later stalled the process.
CNN’s Steven Collinson described the situation as “Trump’s worst defeat from his own party on Capitol Hill during two turbulent presidencies.” He added, “The Epstein saga blew up in his face.”
Bondi, who has been closely aligned with Trump’s legal strategy, now finds herself in a “much more vulnerable political position,” according to Collinson. Critics argue that their resistance to transparency has damaged public trust.
Survivors and Advocates
The bill’s passage marks a major milestone for survivors of Epstein’s crimes. Many have campaigned for years to make the files public, believing they contain evidence of systemic failures and possible cover-ups.
The renewed momentum began earlier in 2025, when survivors became more visible in media and advocacy circles. Their stories resonated with lawmakers who had previously avoided the topic. The shift in tone was evident in the speed and scale of the congressional vote.
“This is not the end,” said Robson. “It’s just the beginning of a much longer fight.”
Timeline and Expectations
Once signed by President Trump, the DOJ will have 30 days to release the unclassified files. Legal experts expect the documents to include:
- Internal DOJ communications
- Case files on Epstein and Maxwell
- Records of alleged co-conspirators
- Details of plea deals and immunity agreements
Sensitive information, including survivor identities, will be redacted to protect privacy.
The release is expected to spark further investigations, media coverage, and possibly new legal actions. Lawmakers have already hinted at forming a bipartisan oversight committee to monitor the DOJ’s compliance.
A Test of Accountability
The Epstein Files Transparency Act is more than a legislative win—it’s a test of America’s commitment to justice and accountability. For President Trump, it’s a moment of reckoning. For survivors, it’s a long-awaited step toward truth.
As the countdown begins, the nation watches closely.
