Congress Forces Full Release of Epstein Files in Landshowdown

US Congress has ordered the Justice Department to release its entire Jeffrey Epstein file. The House passed the measure 427-1. The Senate approved it unanimously.

This forces Attorney General Pam Bondi to disclose all unclassified records within 30 days. According to the BBC, this includes flight logs and internal communications.

What the Epstein Files Bill Actually Requires

The bill mandates release of all documents on Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. It covers investigative materials and communications. Bondi can only redact details that risk ongoing investigations or victim identities.

This congressional push follows years of public pressure. Lawmakers from both parties supported the transparency measure. It represents a significant step in the long-running Epstein case.

Unpacking the Already Public Information

Some Epstein materials have emerged previously. A 1,400-page document batch was released in early 2024. It included depositions from both Epstein and Maxwell.

The Justice Department and FBI released what they called the “first phase” of files earlier this year. These included Epstein’s plane flight logs and a heavily redacted contacts book. They stated in July that no further material would be forthcoming.

Congress itself released over 20,000 pages of Epstein’s emails on November 12. These messages revealed Epstein’s private insults about Donald Trump. They renewed scrutiny of their much-discussed relationship.

The Epstein files bill marks a watershed moment for government transparency. This congressional action ensures the public will finally see the full scope of investigative materials. The coming document release will likely reshape public understanding of this complex case.

Thought you’d like to know

What documents does the Epstein files bill require?

The bill mandates release of all unclassified records on Epstein and Maxwell. This includes flight logs, communications, and investigative materials. The Attorney General must comply within 30 days of the bill becoming law.

What Epstein information is already public?

Previous releases include 1,400 pages of court records from January 2024. The FBI also released flight logs and a contacts book earlier this year. Congress recently published over 20,000 pages of Epstein’s emails.

Can the Justice Department withhold any information?

Yes, the Attorney General can redact details that might jeopardize active investigations. Protection of victim identities also allows for necessary redactions. These exceptions are specifically outlined in the legislation.

How did Congress vote on the Epstein files bill?

The House passed it with an overwhelming 427-1 margin. The Senate approved it using unanimous consent without a formal vote. This demonstrates rare bipartisan agreement on the issue.

When will the new documents become available?

The public should expect new materials within 30 days after presidential signature. The timeline depends on when President Trump signs the bill into law. The Justice Department must then immediately begin the disclosure process.

Trusted Sources

BBC, Reuters, Associated Press