Trump signs law demanding quick disclosure of files
Donald Trump says he has signed a law that forces the Justice Department to release all federal records linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The law sets a 30-day deadline, though officials may withhold details that harm active investigations or violate personal privacy. With Trump’s backing, the bill passes both chambers with overwhelming support. Trump shifts his stance after strong pressure from survivors and members of his own party. He had earlier dismissed the plan as a partisan distraction before reversing course. He now argues the files may reveal information about Democratic figures and highlights his personal role in approving the measure.
Congress moves ahead with near-unanimous support
Congress does not need to vote to release the files, since Trump could have ordered disclosure himself. Lawmakers still decide to back the bill. The House supports it by 427 to 1. The Senate approves it without objection. The files include criminal investigation records, interview transcripts, seized materials, and internal Justice Department communications. They also contain flight logs and links to individuals and organisations associated with Epstein. These records differ from the 20,000 pages released last week from Epstein’s estate. Those documents include 2018 messages in which Epstein says he can “take down” Trump and claims he knows “how dirty donald is.” Trump and Epstein were close for years. Trump says they fell out in the early 2000s and denies any wrongdoing.
Survivors welcome the measure and push for full transparency
Survivors praise the law. The family of Virginia Giuffre calls the decision “nothing short of monumental.” They insist every name must be revealed, regardless of influence or wealth. They say their work continues until full transparency is achieved. Epstein dies in 2019 in a New York jail cell. A coroner rules his death a suicide. He faces sex-trafficking charges at the time and has a prior conviction from 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Epstein maintains ties to many high-profile figures in finance, politics, and media.
Scrutiny intensifies for figures linked to Epstein
Former Harvard president Larry Summers steps away from teaching on Wednesday. The university reviews his links to Epstein after friendly emails appear. Attorney General Pam Bondi must release all unclassified records tied to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days of the law’s enactment. Maxwell serves a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. Officials may still hold back details that harm active investigations or expose victims. Congressman Thomas Massie warns that new probes may delay the release. He fears officials may use them to justify keeping files sealed.
