House GOP Defends Epstein Files Secrecy Amidst Clinton Testimony Efforts

House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson and Oversight Chair James Comer, continue to resist calls from Democrats and some GOP members to release the Justice Department's Jeffrey Epstein case files, despite ongoing public and survivor demands for transparency. Republicans assert that the files do not implicate President Donald Trump, instead suggesting that former President Bill Clinton had closer ties to Epstein, though skepticism remains given the lack of file disclosure. Johnson accuses Democrats of politicizing the issue to attack Trump and claims that protecting victims is a priority, even as victims themselves have urged Congress to make the files public. Meanwhile, efforts to subpoena key figures like Prince Andrew face legal and jurisdictional hurdles. The GOP has delayed swearing in a Democratic congresswoman whose vote could force a release, drawing criticism for stalling. Despite a government shutdown, Johnson and Comer claim investigations into Epstein's crimes persist, while independent journalists and advocates continue to highlight survivor stories and elite complicity.