Representative Ro Khanna (D‑CA) announced plans to force a vote in the House of Representatives demanding the full, unredacted release of all government records related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khanna said he will introduce an amendment this week that would compel House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring the matter to a roll-call vote—putting every member of Congress on the record.
Newsweek reached out to Khanna’s office and Speaker Johnson’s office for comment on Sunday.
Why It Matters
Epstein, who died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, was known for his connections to powerful figures across politics, business, and royalty. Though his death was ruled a suicide, public suspicion has lingered—particularly around the existence of a so-called “client list” that some believe could implicate elite individuals, including President Donald Trump, former President Bill Clinton, and the U.K.’s Prince Andrew.
While all three have denied wrongdoing, the mystery surrounding Epstein’s files continues to stir bipartisan outrage and fuel conspiracy theories. The issue gained renewed attention last month after Elon Musk claimed—without evidence—that Epstein records were being withheld because Trump’s name was in them. Trump dismissed the allegation, saying he had “nothing to do with it.”
Trump and Epstein were known to socialize in the early 2000s, though Trump distanced himself after Epstein was convicted of soliciting sex from a minor in 2008.
What’s New
During his 2024 campaign, Trump pledged to release all Epstein-related files. A partial release came in February under Attorney General Pam Bondi, but last week the administration announced that no “client list” exists and that investigators found no credible evidence of blackmail or conspiracy involving prominent individuals.
A memo, first reported by Axios, said available surveillance footage and case materials support the conclusion that Epstein died by suicide and that there was no incriminating list or broader criminal network.
This announcement sparked backlash—not only from Democrats but also from segments of Trump’s MAGA base, who had long expected sweeping revelations. In a Truth Social post over the weekend, Trump called ongoing focus on Epstein “a waste of time” and urged his supporters to “move on.”
Khanna’s Proposal
Khanna’s amendment, which he plans to introduce Tuesday, would force a House vote on releasing the complete Epstein case files to the public.
“Why are the Epstein files still hidden? Who are the rich & powerful being protected?” Khanna wrote on X. “The Speaker must call a vote & put every Congress member on record.”
The post quickly gained traction online, drawing more than 430,000 views.
Khanna emphasized that the push is not about partisan politics but restoring public trust.
“This is about transparency,” he said. “The files should be released in full, consistent with DOJ principles of protecting victims and innocent parties.”
Political Fallout
Khanna’s maneuver places pressure on both Congress and the Department of Justice, which recently reversed earlier signals that more Epstein materials would be disclosed. While Democrats have largely led the charge, a growing number of Republicans have joined calls for full transparency.
Earlier this month, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D‑MD) and others demanded the release of any documents that mention Trump specifically.
Analysts see Khanna’s move as a strategic play to force lawmakers to take a public stand—either in favor of disclosure or in defense of continued secrecy.
Even if the proposal fails, Khanna’s supporters argue it will create a clear voting record ahead of the 2026 midterms.
What Comes Next
Khanna’s amendment is expected to be introduced Tuesday. If accepted, it could trigger a high-profile vote on one of the most politically charged issues in recent memory.
With public trust in government transparency under renewed scrutiny, the outcome may mark a defining moment in the long-running Epstein saga—and put both parties under pressure to show where they stand.
