Representative Thomas Massie is pushing for the release of additional files concerning Jeffrey Epstein in the House of Representatives. Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, introduced a bill aimed at compelling the Department of Justice (DOJ) to disclose more documents related to Epstein, the financier who died by suicide in 2019 while facing charges of sex trafficking.
There has been a demand for greater transparency in the government’s investigation into Epstein. Massie previously led an initiative to obtain Epstein-related documents but criticized the DOJ for not releasing all records and applying unnecessary redactions to those revealed. The new bill seeks further transparency.
The Epstein files include DOJ-mandated releases of transcripts, emails, visitor logs, and investigative materials. These are being published in batches under a law enacted last year.
A discharge petition to vote on the bill to prompt more releases of Epstein files has gained traction in Congress.
Massie’s legislative proposal, known as the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, surfaced in July. This bill empowers state attorneys general, victims, and members of Congress to challenge the DOJ for non-compliance with previous legislation. Massie claims that the DOJ continues to unlawfully withhold over 3 million records and maintains heavy redactions on the released files.
The bill proposes to enable private parties to sue the U.S. Attorney General for failing to make Epstein-related records public. It grants victims the right to access unredacted information about themselves and implies penalties for DOJ and FBI officials who hide or misrepresent documents.
Backing for the Bill
More than 100 members have signed a petition pushing for a vote on Massie’s bill. Participants in this effort include:
- Ro Khanna (California Democrat)
- Teresa Leger Fernandez (New Mexico Democrat)
- Yassamin Ansari (Arizona Democrat)
- Nancy Mace (South Carolina Republican)
- Wesley Bell (Missouri Democrat)
- Melanie Stansbury (New Mexico Democrat)
- Al Green (Texas Democrat)
Potential Path Forward
If Massie’s petition reaches 218 signatures, the House will be obliged to vote on the proposed bill. With the current House composition at 218-214, some Republican support is necessary. Massie and Mace have already endorsed the bill; Massie predicts gaining two more Republican backers.
Massie has prioritized the release of the Epstein files. Last November, just one Republican opposed the bill to enforce disclosure. This week, Massie highlighted 14 individuals for investigation over their alleged Epstein links without establishing direct criminal activities.
Massie argues that over three million files remain withheld, underscoring the need for the Epstein Files Transparency Act II to ensure DOJ accountability and enable investigations against perpetrators.
Timeline of Key Events
- 2005: Palm Beach authorities investigate Epstein’s alleged abuse of minors.
- July 2006: Epstein faced solicitation charges, prompting FBI scrutiny.
- June 2008: Epstein’s guilty plea led to a 13-month term; critics noted excessive leniency.
- July 2009: Released from custody, Epstein remained a subject of ongoing victim challenges regarding a non-prosecution deal.
- November 2018: Miami Herald’s investigation revealed more details on Epstein.
- July 2019: Epstein was arrested on trafficking charges. DOJ cited a vast network of exploited victims in New York and Florida.
- August 2019: Epstein committed suicide while awaiting trial, elevating demands for transparency.
- July 2020: Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell faced sex crime charges.
- December 2021: Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking.
- 2024: During his campaign, Trump promised to release Epstein records.
- July 2025: Massie and Khanna proposed the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
- November 2025: Trump’s administration enacted the bill.
- December 2025: DOJ started document releases, criticized for slow output and redactions.
- July 2026: Massie introduced Transparency Act II.
- September 2026: Lawmakers rallied behind Massie’s petition to vote on the new legislation.
Trump Administration Under Fire
The Epstein files have sparked political challenges for Trump. Congressional hearings intensified scrutiny as the administration faced criticism from both parties. According to a YouGov poll early in 2026, only 26% approved of Trump’s handling of Epstein investigations, while 57% disapproved. A widespread belief exists that the government is hiding evidence.
Attorney General Pam Bondi resigned amid ongoing scrutiny over Epstein documents. Questions arise regarding Trump’s past association with Epstein. The president has denied any involvement, claiming he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities and severed ties upon learning of allegations.
Future Developments
Massie’s petition has gained momentum. However, securing further Republican support is crucial to avoid stagnation. Should Democrats reclaim control of the House, this issue may continue to advance in the following year.