President Donald Trump executed a dramatic reversal last Sunday night, calling on House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing Justice Department files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after months of dismissing the push as a Democratic hoax.
The stunning about-face came just hours before the House was scheduled to vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a bipartisan measure that would compel the Justice Department to make public all documents related to Epstein's prosecution and connections. The discharge petition forcing the vote received signatures from all House Democrats and four Republicans, including Representatives Thomas Massie, Lauren Boebert, Nancy Mace, and Marjorie Taylor Greene.
"House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide. I DON'T CARE! All I do care about is that Republicans get BACK ON POINT."
Trump's reversal marks a significant shift from his previous position. Throughout 2025, the administration fought vigorously against releasing the files, with the president repeatedly characterizing the effort as a political distraction orchestrated by Democrats. As recently as July, Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to announce that the Justice Department had found no evidence of a client list and would release no further documents.
The change in stance appears to reflect political reality rather than a shift in principle. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged that the bill would receive substantial Republican support, with dozens of GOP members expected to vote yes despite presidential opposition. Representative Thomas Massie, the Republican co-sponsor of the legislation, suggested Trump's reversal came because he was tired of losing.
The controversy intensified after House Democrats released emails written by Epstein that referenced Trump, including one stating Trump knew about the girls. Trump has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and has never been charged in connection with Epstein's crimes. The president acknowledged a social friendship with Epstein in Palm Beach during the 1990s but claims they had a falling out approximately 15 years before Epstein's death.
The reversal sparked a public feud with longtime ally Marjorie Taylor Greene, who signed the discharge petition. Trump withdrew his endorsement of Greene, calling her a ranting lunatic and inviting primary challengers. Trump also directed the Justice Department to investigate Epstein's connections with prominent Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton, a move some critics view as an attempt to delay file releases through ongoing investigations.
The House is expected to vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act this week, with passage appearing likely given bipartisan support. The bill would require the Justice Department to make all Epstein-related files publicly available within 30 days, though materials related to active investigations could be withheld or redacted. Survivors of Epstein's abuse are planning to rally at the Capitol, urging lawmakers to focus on accountability rather than politics.