Democrats seize on Epstein files drama with new transparency calls
FOX News3 days
House GOP Blocks Democratic Push to Release Epstein Files
Above: U.S. Republican Reps. Ralph Norman and Chip Roy during a House Rules Committee meeting on July 1, 2025. Image copyright: Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This vote to reject releasing all Epstein files aligns with court orders sealing sensitive documents, including alleged victims' claims and accusers' private details. Even if released, the absence of a "client list" or incriminating videos, plus no evidence of high-profile involvement like Trump's, would likely disappoint conspiracy theorists expecting blockbuster revelations.
Democratic narrative
Trump's flip-flopping — from promoting then dismissing a nonexistent "client list" —and Bondi's reckless claims of videos and cover-ups have caused justified anger from both Democrats and Republicans. Their mishandling, from Bondi's Fox News gaffes to Bongino's FBI clashes, has turned a non-issue into a scandal, leaving Trump cornered and the Justice Department in disarray.
Establishment-critical narrative
The political establishment, which now appears to include Trump, has long buried Epstein's secrets, fueling suspicions of a cover-up to shield implicated elites. Sealing documents only deepens guilt perceptions. The Justice Department's claim of no "client list" or blackmail evidence reeks of evasion, especially with Trump's ties to Epstein and Bondi's flip-flops. Transparency is overdue, and hiding the files just confirms the rot.