Democrat lawmaker forces House vote to make Epstein files public without redactions

Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) announced plans this week to push for a full House vote demanding the release of all unredacted documents connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The move is set to put every member of Congress on the record over an issue that continues to stir controversy across the political spectrum.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Khanna stated his intent to introduce an amendment that would require the House Speaker to bring the measure to a roll-call vote. The initiative aims to pressure lawmakers to take a public stand on whether the Epstein files should be made fully available to the American people.

Epstein, who died in jail six years ago while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, had long-standing ties with a range of influential figures. Though his death was officially ruled a suicide, speculation has remained persistent that he may have been killed to protect what many call a “client list”—allegedly implicating prominent individuals including President Donald Trump, former President Bill Clinton, and the U.K.’s Prince Andrew.

Prince Andrew, accused of sexual misconduct connected to Epstein, has denied all allegations and stepped back from royal duties in 2020. Clinton has stated he had no contact with Epstein after his 2008 conviction and has denied ever visiting Epstein’s private island. Meanwhile, rumors surged again last month after Elon Musk claimed in a now-deleted post that the Epstein files were being suppressed because “Trump is in the Epstein files.” Trump denied the claim, saying he “had nothing to do with it,” but the allegation reignited national attention.

Though Trump has acknowledged knowing Epstein in social circles during the early 2000s, he has denied any wrongdoing and said he distanced himself after Epstein’s first conviction. During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to declassify Epstein-related documents. While a partial release did take place in February under Attorney General Pam Bondi’s supervision, it fell far short of expectations.

This week, Bondi and Trump stated the investigation yielded “no incriminating ‘client list,’” sparking frustration among Democrats and blowback from some MAGA-aligned figures who had expected damning revelations. According to a memo obtained by Axios, investigators found “no credible evidence … that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals” and no such list existed. It also said surveillance footage from the night of Epstein’s death supported the official suicide ruling.

In a post on Truth Social over the weekend, Trump dismissed the renewed attention around Epstein, writing: “not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about.”

Late Saturday, Khanna countered that message by posting: “Why are the Epstein files still hidden? Who are the rich & powerful being protected? On Tuesday, I’m introducing an amendment to force a vote demanding the FULL Epstein files be released to the public. The Speaker must call a vote & put every Congress member on record.” The post has drawn over 432,000 views so far.

Khanna’s proposal is being interpreted as an attempt to push both Congress and the DOJ toward greater accountability, especially after recent decisions by Trump-appointed DOJ officials—like Bondi—to walk back earlier pledges to release more files. If the amendment is accepted, it would force a formal vote, allowing the public to see which lawmakers support full transparency and which do not.

The initiative is also seen as a savvy political maneuver. By demanding a vote, Khanna ensures that even if the measure fails, there will be a documented record showing who chose to keep the files sealed. Supporters argue it would pressure lawmakers who might otherwise seek to avoid public scrutiny.

While Democrats have taken the lead on the issue, there has also been bipartisan concern. Some Republicans have voiced frustration over the DOJ’s refusal to publish additional records, fueling claims that the agency is shielding powerful individuals.

Earlier this month, Democrats led by Rep. Jamie Raskin formally requested the release of any DOJ documents referencing Trump. The pressure for full disclosure continues to mount, with transparency advocates insisting the files must be made public to restore public trust.

In response to criticism online, Khanna wrote: “This is about transparency and restoring trust, not partisan politics. The public outcry is apparent. The files should be fully released and can be done so consistent with DOJ principles of protecting victims and the innocent.”

Whether or not the amendment passes, Khanna’s supporters believe the move will serve a greater purpose. It will either bring the Epstein files to light or make clear which lawmakers stand in the way. As public confidence in institutions hangs in the balance, the outcome of this vote could become a defining moment in the ongoing fight for government transparency.

Note to our readers: This article is based on verified reporting from Newsweek, Axios, public congressional records, and official statements. All direct quotes remain unchanged to preserve accuracy and accountability in coverage.