GOP Lawmakers Push Epstein Files Release amid Administration Misstep, Trust Crisis

The Trump administration's refusal to fully release Jeffrey Epstein files has sparked bipartisan criticism and concerns over government transparency, with lawmakers warning it could damage public trust and Republican prospects in the 2026 midterms. Progressive Democrat Ro Khanna and libertarian Republican Thomas Massie introduced the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act to compel the public release of unclassified materials, gaining support from a diverse group of lawmakers despite opposition from Republican leadership, including House Speaker Mike Johnson. Khanna emphasized the issue as a matter of restoring trust in government, citing historically low public confidence. President Trump has dismissed the Epstein files as a "hoax" orchestrated by previous administrations and accused Democrats of politicizing the scandal, while expressing frustration over the backlash within his own base and avoiding staff changes to prevent further spectacle. The controversy intensified following conflicting statements by Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the existence of an Epstein client list, triggering calls from MAGA supporters for her resignation. Both parties agree transparency is essential, but partisan divides and leadership resistance have stalled efforts to hold a vote before Congress reconvenes.