Speaker Johnson Criticizes GOP Massie Over Epstein Files Dispute

House Speaker Mike Johnson has publicly expressed frustration with Rep. Thomas Massie over Massie's push to force a vote on a bipartisan resolution demanding the release of Jeffrey Epstein case files. Massie, who has faced criticism from President Donald Trump and other Republicans for various stances, is using a discharge petition to circumvent leadership opposition and bring the matter to the floor. Johnson questioned the timing of Massie's move, noting that Massie could have pursued the release at any time during the last four years, including under former President Biden, and accused him of damaging the Republican Party. Despite Massie's efforts to garner bipartisan support for transparency on the Epstein files, Johnson described Massie's actions as political games and expressed confusion over the congressman's motivations, alluding to internal party tensions. Johnson also used the Southern phrase "bless his heart" as a veiled insult when asked about backing Massie's reelection bid, highlighting the strained relationship between the two Republicans. The dispute underscores broader GOP divisions as conservative voters demand transparency on Epstein-related documents amid ongoing scrutiny.