The United States House of Representatives passed a significant bill on Tuesday, demanding the Justice Department publicly release its files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The vote concluded with an overwhelming majority of 427-1, marking a notable shift after months of opposition from President Donald Trump and the Republican leadership.
This legislative initiative began as a small, bipartisan effort in July, when a group of House lawmakers sought to circumvent House Speaker Mike Johnson‘s control over which bills could be debated. Initially appearing to be a longshot, the petition gained momentum, despite Trump urging his supporters to dismiss the issue as a “hoax.” The President, facing increasing pressure, has now indicated he will sign the bill if it also passes in the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed confidence that the Senate will act quickly on the legislation. This development signals a growing bipartisan consensus on the need for transparency regarding Epstein’s crimes and the individuals involved.
Trump’s Other Headlines on Tuesday
The House’s action coincided with several other noteworthy developments involving the Trump administration. During a visit from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, Trump dismissed U.S. intelligence findings that suggested the Crown Prince’s involvement in the 2018 murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump described bin Salman as an essential figure for shaping the future of the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Education Department is transferring several major grant programs to other federal agencies, continuing the administration’s strategy to dismantle the department. This move follows Trump’s executive action in March aimed at eliminating the agency. The Department of Labor will now oversee significant federal funding streams for K-12 schools.
In a separate development, Pope Leo XIV voiced strong support for U.S. bishops who have criticized the Trump administration’s immigration policies. He urged Americans to heed the bishops’ call for humane treatment of migrants, emphasizing the importance of dignity and justice for all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
These events illustrate the complex interplay of legislative action and international relations that characterizes the current political landscape in the United States. The outcome of the Senate’s response to the Epstein files bill remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly reflects a growing demand for accountability and transparency in government.
