Harris Urges Trump to Release Epstein Files
Former Vice President Kamala Harris urged President Donald Trump to take decisive action and release the Epstein files. Her comments came during an appearance on a podcast with Bulwark, where she critiqued Trump’s claim that Congressional approval is necessary for their release, suggesting it is a tactic to “gaslight the American people.”
“Suddenly, he’s saying he’ll wait to see what Congress does. When did that change?” Harris questioned. “Now he’s looking for Congress to give the green light? Really?” She went on to strongly advocate for the files’ release, stating, “Open the file. He’s the president; he can act unilaterally. He often does, ignoring the balance of power. So just release it.”
Harris made these statements shortly before Trump signed a bill allowing the Justice Department to publish these files. He announced this on Truth Social, emphasizing how he had coordinated with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune to secure the bill’s passage. “I just signed a bill to release the Epstein file!” he declared. He criticized the Biden administration for not releasing any related documents.
The House overwhelmingly voted, 421-1, in favor of the measure after persistent efforts by the bill’s proponents, Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), along with support from other Democrats.
The Epstein File Transparency Act mandates the Justice Department to make public all unclassified records and investigative materials linked to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. This includes information about individuals involved in previous cases, allegations of human trafficking, internal communications within the Justice Department regarding Epstein, and specifics about the investigation into his death.
However, the Justice Department retains the right to withhold or redact sensitive materials, such as details that may jeopardize ongoing investigations.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that she would adhere to the new law, which requires the Justice Department to make these files available online in a searchable format within 30 days.
