Trump now states that House Republicans ought to vote for the release of Epstein documents.

In a notable change of stance, President Donald Trump has encouraged House Republicans to vote for the release of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, reversing his earlier opposition to declassification. Trump’s shift comes amid increasing pressure from within the GOP and aims to project transparency while countering narratives he describes as “Democrat Hoaxes.” He emphasized the need to focus on Republican achievements, including economic successes.

This development aligns with the release of over 33,000 pages of Epstein-related documents by a Republican-led House committee in September, though critics claimed much of the information was already publicly available. In light of ongoing controversies, a bipartisan group of lawmakers has proposed the Epstein Files Transparency Act to mandate the Justice Department release all unclassified records concerning Epstein, with safeguards for sensitive information about victims and ongoing investigations.

The legislation has attained significant traction, receiving the necessary 218 signatures for a discharge petition to prompt a House vote. However, it has also led to divisions within the Republican Party, with some members expressing concern about the implications for victims and active investigations. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the petition as “inartfully drafted,” pointing out its lack of provisions to protect victims’ identities.

Trump’s endorsement of the act seems to be a strategic maneuver to align with the growing bipartisan push for transparency. By supporting this legislative effort, he seeks to shift focus from controversies linked to his previous connections with Epstein and to address the public’s demand for clarity. The upcoming House vote will be crucial in determining the fate of the Epstein Files Transparency Act and the extent of information made accessible to the public.