House Speaker Criticizes Discharge Petitions on Epstein Files

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) described the efforts by Thomas Massey (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) regarding the release of files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as “reckless.”

In an interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker on “Meet the Press,” Johnson stated, “House Republicans claim to have all credible evidence and information related to Epstein available. However, we are also pushing for protections for innocent victims. Our concern is that Massey and Khanna’s discharge petitions are poorly drafted and lack the necessary safeguards.”

This month, Massey mentioned plans to compel a vote that would require the Department of Justice to release Epstein-related files through procedural maneuvers.

“The public deserves to know what’s in the Epstein files, who is involved, and how deep this corruption runs. Americans demand justice and transparency,” he posted on the social platform X in mid-July.

Massey added, “We’re introducing discharge petitions to force a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives for the complete file.” To move forward, this petition requires 218 signatures to break through House leadership.

Massey and Khanna are part of a group known for their right-leaning stance, which includes members like Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), and Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.).

In their joint appearance on “Meet the Press,” Massey acknowledged the potential political fallout for Republicans regarding the Epstein issue but emphasized the need for accountability: “This will hurt Republicans in the mid-term, but voters will be disregarded if we don’t hold the powerful to account.”

Massey expressed confidence in gathering the necessary signatures, suggesting Speaker Johnson might not take appropriate action to bring this issue to the floor.

Efforts to comment from Khanna and Massey’s offices are underway.