Former President Donald Trump has signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, reversing his months-long opposition. The bill passed Congress on Tuesday with bipartisan support, marking a rare moment of unity on Capitol Hill.
Trump announced the signing on social media late Wednesday, without holding any public ceremony. His move surprised Washington insiders, as the president had previously warned House Republicans against supporting the bill. Analysts say Trump reversed course to avoid political embarrassment amid rising pressure from lawmakers and abuse survivors.
The law requires the Justice Department to release unclassified Epstein files online within a month. These files will include transcripts, flight logs, and communications that may reveal previously unknown names and connections. Narrow exceptions are allowed only for personal privacy, legal, or security concerns.
Despite the law’s passage, questions remain over whether the administration will fully comply. Some officials may use ongoing investigations as a reason to delay or redact documents. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that Trump must execute the law faithfully and avoid selectively withholding information.
Epstein, a wealthy financier, was accused of trafficking girls and young women for sex over many years. His connections spanned business, politics, academia, and entertainment. Trump himself was a longtime associate of Epstein, raising public scrutiny over what he knew about Epstein’s activities.
The saga has fueled widespread distrust in the U.S. justice system. Epstein’s 2019 arrest and subsequent death in jail sparked outrage, with many suspecting a cover-up of his network’s operations. The passage of the Epstein files bill was seen as a victory for survivors, who cheered in the House gallery as the vote was announced.
Lawmakers and analysts are now watching closely as the Justice Department prepares to make the files public. Critics warn that procedural delays or new investigations, including one recently ordered by Trump, could act as a “smoke screen” to limit disclosure.
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that the department would continue to provide “maximum transparency under the law” and encouraged any victims to come forward. The release of the Epstein files is expected to shed further light on one of the most notorious criminal networks in recent U.S. history.
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