In brief
President Donald Trump has signed a bill that compels the U.S. Justice Department to release files on the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The bill mandates the completion of this release within 30 days, while allowing for certain exceptions related to ongoing investigations and privacy concerns. Trump's support followed intense pressure for transparency, leading to overwhelming congressional approval. Epstein's connections to powerful individuals continue to spotlight the intersection of politics, celebrity, and criminality.
US President Donald Trump says he signed a bill that orders the release of government files on the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein - a significant turning point in a months-long fight over the documents.
The justice department now has 30 days to publicly share all information from federal investigations into Epstein. However, it can withhold files that relate to active criminal investigations or are deemed to invade personal privacy.
In a major reversal, Trump dropped his opposition to the measure last weekend after pushback from Epstein's victims and members of his own Republican Party.
With his support, the resolution overwhelmingly cleared both chambers of Congress.
Until recently, Trump had dismissed the need to release the documents, calling it a Democrat-led hoax to deflect attention away from his party's work. That position was itself a change from the stance he took ahead of the 2024 election.
Under the law now signed by Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi must release the documents within 30 days. The files are expected to include transcripts of interviews with victims, witness statements, and other critical investigative materials. However, the resolution allows the Justice Department to withhold any documents related to ongoing criminal investigations, raising questions about the extent of transparency.
One of the bill's key proponents expressed concern over potential redactions, particularly those related to the identities of victims.
Critics argue this move is an attempt to deflect scrutiny from Trump's connections to Epstein, who he maintained to have cut ties with years prior to Epstein's arrest. As the political fallout unfolds, many are watching to see how the situation will influence the upcoming election and the broader conversation about accountability for powerful figures.
