Trump signs law requiring fast disclosure of records
Donald Trump says he has signed a law that forces the Justice Department to release all federal records linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The law sets a 30-day deadline, though officials may hold back details that harm active investigations or violate personal privacy. With Trump’s backing, the bill passes both chambers with overwhelming support. Trump reverses his position after strong pressure from survivors and members of his own party. He had earlier dismissed the effort as a partisan distraction before changing course. He now argues the files may reveal information about Democratic figures and highlights his role in approving the measure.
Congress advances the measure with near-unanimous backing
A congressional vote is not required to release the files, since Trump could have ordered disclosure himself. Lawmakers still choose to pass the bill. The House supports it by 427 to 1. The Senate approves it without objection. The files include criminal investigation records, interview transcripts, seized materials, and internal Justice Department communications. They also contain flight logs and links to individuals and organisations tied to Epstein. These files differ from the 20,000 pages released last week from Epstein’s estate. Those documents include 2018 messages in which Epstein claims he can “take down” Trump and says he knows “how dirty donald is.” Trump and Epstein were close for years. Trump says they fell out in the early 2000s and denies any wrongdoing.
Survivors welcome the law and demand full transparency
Survivors praise the decision. The family of Virginia Giuffre calls the law “nothing short of monumental.” They insist every name must be revealed, regardless of wealth or influence. They say their work continues until complete transparency is reached. Epstein dies in 2019 in a New York jail cell. A coroner rules his death a suicide. He faces sex-trafficking charges at the time and has a prior conviction from 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Epstein maintains ties to many high-profile figures across media, finance, and politics.
Prominent figures face renewed scrutiny over Epstein links
Former Harvard president Larry Summers steps away from teaching on Wednesday. The university reviews his relationship with Epstein after friendly emails emerge. Attorney General Pam Bondi must release all unclassified records tied to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days of the law’s enactment. Maxwell serves a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. Officials may still block details that harm ongoing investigations or expose victims. Congressman Thomas Massie warns that new probes could slow the release. He fears officials may use them to justify withholding files.
