Washington: A US lawmaker who spearheaded efforts to release the files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein questioned the expected timing of the files' release on Friday-the same day the US House has canceled its session. Rep. Ro Khanna expressed concerns on Thursday regarding the release, which follows the passage of the Epstein Transparency Act. This legislation, co-sponsored by Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie, aims to increase public access to records connected to Epstein.
According to Anadolu Agency, Khanna stated on US social media company X, "Epstein files released Friday because of my and @RepThomasMassie Epstein Transparency Act, and House (of Representatives) cancels session that day. Coincidence?" His remarks came after the House Republican leadership canceled Friday votes, allowing members to leave early on Thursday afternoon.
The act mandates Attorney General Pam Bondi to release to the public the Epstein files in possession of the Justice Department and FBI by Friday. However, Democratic leaders remain cautious, suspecting that despite the apparent agreement to release the files, there may be last-minute legal actions preventing their disclosure. Concerns include potential 11th-hour criminal probes into figures named in the files, which could be used as a pretext for withholding them.
The issue remains politically charged, as evidenced by the recent release of an additional 20,000 pages of documents by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. This latest set contains over 95,000 photos, including images of high-profile figures such as President Donald Trump, former President Bill Clinton, Steve Bannon, Bill Gates, and Richard Branson.
Epstein, who was found dead in his New York City jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, had previously pleaded guilty in a Florida federal court and was convicted of procuring a minor for prostitution in 2008. Critics have labeled this conviction a 'sweetheart deal.' His victims allege he ran a vast sex trafficking network involving members of the wealthy and political elite.
The Epstein case continues to spark debate in the US, with calls for transparency regarding his network of associates and any individuals who may have facilitated his crimes. Trump has consistently denied any misconduct related to Epstein. Nonetheless, their past interactions and Epstein's connections to various influential figures have intensified demands for the comprehensive release of official records.