Washington: US Representative Ilhan Omar has publicly criticized the Republican Party for what she perceives as their evasion in voting on a motion that would demand the release of files related to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

According to Anadolu Agency, Omar expressed her disapproval on social media platform X, labeling the Republicans as the "pedophile protection party" and accusing them of shutting down Congress to avoid a vote on the Epstein files. Her statement reflects ongoing tensions between the two major political parties over the handling of sensitive information related to Epstein.

In response, House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the decision, asserting that it was not an attempt to protect Republicans from potentially difficult votes concerning Epstein, nor an effort to shield former President Trump from any damaging revelations. Instead, Johnson accused the Democrats of engaging in "political games," as reported by the Hill newspaper.

Epstein's death in August 2019, ruled a suicide while he was held in a New York jail awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, has fueled numerous conspiracy theories. These theories stem from his known associations with influential and well-known individuals, sparking public interest in the contents of the investigation files.

On the judicial front, a federal judge has directed Justice Department officials to provide additional details within a week regarding the rationale for unsealing grand jury testimony in Epstein's case. This legal development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.

Furthermore, House Speaker Mike Johnson's announcement to commence the August recess earlier than scheduled effectively blocks Democratic efforts to initiate votes on the release of Epstein's investigation files, further intensifying the political clash.