Trump Backs Epstein Files Release Amid GOP Feud, Urgent Vote Looms

UPDATE: In a surprising twist, President Donald Trump is now supporting the release of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, signaling a potential shift in the Republican Party’s stance as tensions escalate within its ranks. The announcement came late Sunday, shortly after Trump returned to Joint Base Andrews following a weekend in Florida.

This development marks a significant reversal for Trump, who previously opposed the proposal but now acknowledges that House Republicans are poised to pass the measure this week. In his social media post, he stated, “We have nothing to hide, and it’s time to move on from this Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics.”

The GOP is embroiled in a fierce internal conflict over the Epstein files, with notable tensions between Trump and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of his staunchest allies. Trump’s shift indicates that supporters of the bill have enough votes to advance it in the House, but its fate in the Senate remains uncertain.

The proposed legislation aims to compel the Justice Department to disclose all communications and files related to Epstein, including details of the investigation into his death in federal custody. While information about Epstein’s victims may be redacted, the move is intended to enhance transparency.

Rep. Thomas Massie, who has pushed for the bill, predicts a strong Republican turnout, claiming “there could be 100 or more” votes in favor. Lawmakers have been vocal about their plans to bypass traditional leadership to ensure this bill receives a vote.

Trump’s previous stance against the release has drawn criticism from within the party, with Massie stating that GOP leadership will face a significant loss this week. “The record of this vote will last longer than Donald Trump’s presidency,” he declared.

As the House gears up for a vote, Speaker Mike Johnson expressed optimism that the bill will pass, emphasizing, “There’s nothing to hide.” This comes at a time when new documents are surfacing, reigniting questions about Epstein’s connections, including a 2019 email suggesting Trump was aware of the “girls.”

The fallout from Trump’s statement has been dramatic, especially concerning Greene, who has expressed disappointment in Trump’s shift. “Unfortunately, it has all come down to the Epstein files,” she said, emphasizing the need for transparency. Greene and other rebel Republicans are pushing against Trump’s wishes, raising the stakes for the upcoming vote.

As the situation intensifies, lawmakers are preparing for a public news conference on Tuesday, where survivors of Epstein’s abuse are expected to speak out. With the House vote anticipated soon, the pressure will mount on Senate Republicans to follow suit.

This critical vote is set against a backdrop of ongoing investigations into Epstein’s activities and connections, with many within the GOP now reassessing their positions as the party grapples with its identity and future.

Stay tuned for further updates as this urgent situation unfolds.