Trump Signs Epstein Files Bill After Months of Opposition

President Donald Trump has signed a bill to release Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein. The move came after he spent months opposing the legislation. He reversed his position only when it became clear the bill would pass without his support.

President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with the White House task force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

The president announced the decision on Truth Social. He attempted to take credit for the bill’s passage despite his previous efforts to block it.

Political Reversal on High-Profile Case

Trump had initially promised to release the documents if reelected. He later reversed that campaign pledge. According to Reuters, the Justice Department issued a memo in July stating Epstein died by suicide and that no “client list” is known to exist.

This memo created significant tension within the administration. Trump reportedly criticized his allies for focusing on what he called “bullshit” Epstein files.

Scrutiny and Legal Fallout

The political drama intensified with a Wall Street Journal report about a 2003 letter from Trump to Epstein. The president dismissed the letter as fake. It was later revealed he had been informed his name appeared in the files.

Despite the signing, the bill includes key exceptions. These provisions could keep many documents confidential or significantly delay their public release.

The signing of the Epstein files bill marks a significant political capitulation. This action ensures continued public scrutiny of a long-running case. The release process is now officially underway.

Info at your fingertips

What does the new law actually do?

It forces the Department of Justice to release its files on Jeffrey Epstein. The process will be subject to specific exceptions for privacy and national security. Not all documents may become public.

When will the files be released?

There is no specific public timeline for the release. The DOJ must now begin the review and redaction process. This could take months or even years to complete.

What was Trump’s original position?

He initially promised during his campaign to release the files. He later reversed course and urged his party to vote against the bill. His signature came only after passage was assured.

Who is Maria Farmer?

Maria Farmer is a survivor who accused Epstein of assault. She testified against Ghislaine Maxwell during her trial. Farmer praised the bill’s passage as a victory for transparency.

Why did the DOJ close its investigation?

The Justice Department concluded Epstein died by suicide in custody. Their memo stated no evidence supports the existence of a “client list.” This effectively closed their active investigation.