GOP Lawmakers Reject Proposal to Unseal Epstein Evidence
Republican lawmakers have voted down a Democratic proposal aimed at making evidence from Jeffrey Epstein’s 2019 sex-trafficking case public. The blocked amendment sought to attach the measure to cryptocurrency legislation, sparking heated debate in Congress over transparency and accountability.
The amendment, introduced by Representative Ro Khanna of California, would have directed the Justice Department to release materials seized during the investigation of Epstein, including videos, hard drives, and other evidence.
Internal GOP Rift Over Epstein Files
The move follows public comments earlier this year by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who initially signaled an intention to release the evidence. Bondi later reversed her position, citing a Justice Department review that confirmed Epstein died by suicide and described the evidence as containing thousands of hours of graphic material.
The reversal ignited division among prominent Republican figures. Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino reportedly clashed with Bondi over the issue and has not appeared publicly since July 9, according to reports.
Supporters of releasing the evidence, including high-profile conservatives like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Megyn Kelly, have continued to press the administration.
Democrats Vow to Press On
Khanna criticized the GOP’s decision, framing the issue as a test of whether Congress sides with “the rich and powerful” or with the public. He pledged to continue reintroducing the measure until the records are released.
The proposed amendment would have covered a range of evidence from the case, including microcassettes, DVDs, CDs, computer drives, and massage tables seized during raids on Epstein’s properties.
Maxwell Appeals While Talks of Cooperation Emerge
The drama has also touched on Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s convicted associate, who recently appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court to enforce a 2007 non-prosecution agreement from Epstein’s Florida plea deal. Maxwell’s lawyer argued that the government broke its word by prosecuting her despite that agreement.
According to reports, Maxwell has indicated willingness to testify before Congress, potentially in exchange for a reduced sentence. However, prosecutors have shown little interest, with one defense attorney noting the government appeared to avoid implicating high-profile names during her trial.
Ongoing Political Fallout
The blocked amendment underscores broader tensions within the Republican party and between the parties over how to handle the politically sensitive case. Trump administration figures, including Bondi and Bongino, have reportedly sparred over the fallout, with Vice President JD Vance reportedly mediating the dispute.
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