Massie Pushes for House Vote on Epstein Files Release

Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has taken significant steps to compel the U.S. House of Representatives to vote on releasing files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. On September 2, 2025, Massie filed a discharge petition aimed at garnering enough support to force a vote on a bill he co-introduced with Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.). This legislation requires the Justice Department to make Epstein’s files public.

Massie announced his plans on social media, affirming his commitment to filing the petition as Congress reconvened after its August recess. He stated, “At that point we can begin collecting the 218 signatures necessary to force a vote on binding legislation to release the Epstein files.” Achieving the necessary threshold will require support from several Republican members, despite pressure from GOP leadership and the White House discouraging participation.

Khanna echoed Massie’s confidence, asserting that all 212 Democrats would likely support the petition, along with the six additional Republicans needed to reach the required majority. This move comes after a wave of public outrage following a Justice Department memo indicating there would be no further disclosures in the Epstein case.

Investigation Underway Amid Controversy

The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Epstein’s case. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) noted that the committee is making progress, stating, “The Department of Justice complied with all the subpoenas they received and are processing 34,000 documents already.” Johnson emphasized the importance of transparency, assuring the public that information would be made available in a timely manner.

Despite this, Johnson criticized Massie’s approach to the issue, labeling his comments as “meaningless.” In response, Massie dismissed the committee’s investigation as a “placebo” resolution, arguing that merely providing existing documents would not satisfy the public’s desire for comprehensive transparency. He warned that frustration could grow if the released information is perceived as inadequate.

Massie elaborated, “Using that Oversight investigation as a placebo for the full release of these files… risks giving people something they already know.” He referenced a previous instance involving Attorney General Pam Bondi, suggesting that simply distributing previously available information would only lead to further disappointment.

Political Dynamics and Future Implications

The dynamics within Congress could play a crucial role in the outcome of the discharge petition. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), the ranking member of the House Rules Committee, was the first to sign the petition, indicating a willingness among some lawmakers to pursue this issue further.

As the petition gains momentum, the debate over the release of Epstein’s files highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability within government institutions. The public’s interest in uncovering the full scope of the Epstein case remains strong, and the political implications of this push for disclosure could reverberate throughout the upcoming legislative sessions.

The outcome of this initiative may not only impact the perception of the Justice Department’s actions but also challenge the boundaries of congressional oversight in sensitive matters. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the House to see if Massie can rally enough support to bring this critical issue to a vote.