In a significant political move, Democrats in Congress are advocating for the release of the complete files related to the notorious case of Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender. The recent push comes as several Democratic candidates incorporate the Epstein case into their campaign speeches, using it as a focal point to criticize former President Donald Trump and his administration's handling of the matter.
Jeffrey Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges, has been a subject of numerous conspiracy theories. Initially, many Democrats distanced themselves from these theories, but the current climate has led them to demand more transparency. They argue that Trump is attempting to shield himself from scrutiny, especially in light of Attorney General Pam Bondi’s and other officials' denials regarding Epstein’s death and the existence of a so-called “client list.”
This issue presents a unique opportunity for top Democratic leaders to create a divide within the Republican Party, particularly as they face internal conflicts over Trump’s actions related to the Epstein case. A recent CNN poll reveals that Democrats express greater dissatisfaction than Republicans regarding the information released by the federal government about Epstein. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized, “The American people deserve to know the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth as it relates to this whole sordid Jeffrey Epstein matter.”
In Congress, Democratic representatives are actively seeking votes to facilitate the release of Epstein's files. California Representative Ro Khanna has introduced an amendment requiring Bondi to publish all related documents on a publicly accessible website within 30 days. However, attempts to attach this amendment to a cryptocurrency bill were blocked by the House Rules Committee. Additionally, Texas Representative Marc Veasey has introduced a resolution echoing Khanna’s call, pointing out that “NO Republican signed on to cosponsor.”
In the Senate, Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland is advocating for measures to ensure that Epstein records are preserved. His amendment was unanimously approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee, highlighting a bipartisan effort to address the Epstein issue. Van Hollen stated, “It’s time for full transparency and accountability.”
On the other side of the aisle, Trump has remarked that the decision to release files rests with Bondi, who has been evasive regarding additional disclosures. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has shown support for releasing more investigative files, stating, “We should put everything out there and let the people decide.” However, conservative radio host Jason Rantz criticized the Democrats' push as disingenuous, suggesting it could undermine their credibility with the MAGA base.
A troubling CNN poll conducted shortly after the Justice Department released its memo on Epstein revealed that half of Americans are dissatisfied with the government's transparency regarding the Epstein case, with only 3% expressing satisfaction. The dissatisfaction is notably pronounced among Democrats (56%) and independents (52%).
As the 2026 midterms approach, Democratic candidates are leveraging Trump's past associations with Epstein to rally support. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff pointedly questioned, “Did anyone really think the sexual predator president who used to party with Jeffrey Epstein was gonna release the Epstein files?” Meanwhile, New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill is also highlighting her GOP opponent's stance on the Epstein files.
The Epstein case is also gaining traction among potential 2028 presidential candidates. Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego has reached out to supporters with a plea to “Release the Epstein List,” while California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly challenged Trump to disclose what he knows.
As the Democratic Party navigates these complex issues, leaders are hopeful that their campaign against the alleged cover-up of Epstein's files will resonate with voters. The House Majority PAC has announced plans to target vulnerable House Republicans who have not addressed the Epstein matter, framing it as part of a broader narrative of protecting the elite. The party's success hinges on whether this message can maintain momentum leading into the upcoming elections.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the demand for transparency regarding the Epstein files remains a critical issue for Democrats, underscoring the ongoing discourse surrounding accountability and the influence of powerful figures in American politics.
