House Stalls Over Epstein Files as Tensions Rise

Legislative activity in the U.S. House has stalled after Republican leaders, under pressure from Democrats and their own base, recessed the Rules Committee and advanced the August break to avoid votes on releasing Jeffrey Epstein-related files. The move came as Democrats and some Republicans advocated for full public release, while GOP leaders grappled with concerns about transparency angering MAGA supporters and possibly embarrassing former President Trump, who recently reversed his position on the issue. Rep. Thomas Massie has started a bipartisan discharge petition to force a vote, though House rules will delay any action until after recess. The Justice Department has stated there is no incriminating client list or blackmail evidence in the Epstein files, a claim that has further fueled conspiracy theories and political controversy. The deadlock has also halted unrelated legislative business. The House is not expected to act on the Epstein files until at least September.