Congressional Push for Epstein Files Intensifies as Survivors Prepare to Speak Publicly

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) are set to host a joint press conference tomorrow, September 3rd, at 10:30 AM ET, on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, often referred to as the "People's House." The event will feature survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse, some of whom will be speaking publicly for the first time. This bipartisan initiative aims to amplify calls for the full release of government files related to the disgraced financier.

Representative Ro Khanna announced the upcoming event via social media, stating, "> Tomorrow at 10:30am ET, @RepThomasMassie and I are holding a press conference with survivors of Epstein’s abuse. We have invited them to the steps of the People's House so all of America can finally hear their stories." The press conference is a key component of a broader effort by Khanna and Massie to advance the "Epstein Files Transparency Act," a bill designed to compel the Justice Department to release all relevant investigative files.

The push for transparency comes amidst ongoing legal and public scrutiny surrounding Epstein's network and the institutions that may have facilitated his crimes. Recent settlements include JPMorgan Chase agreeing to pay $290 million to Epstein survivors, and Deutsche Bank settling a similar case for $75 million. These financial resolutions highlight the continued legal accountability being sought against entities connected to Epstein's illicit activities.

The proposed legislation by Khanna and Massie seeks to force a House vote on the release of these documents through a discharge petition, requiring 218 signatures to bypass House leadership. While the House Oversight Committee has already released thousands of pages of Epstein-related documents, lawmakers like Massie argue that the released information is largely public and does not constitute full transparency. House Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed commitment to transparency but emphasizes protecting victims' identities.

Survivors have been central to the ongoing advocacy for justice and accountability. The Epstein Victims' Compensation Program, established after his death, has paid out over $121 million to 135 survivors. However, many advocates and survivors believe that the full truth of Epstein's operations and his enablers has yet to be revealed, underscoring the significance of the congressional press conference and the legislative efforts to unseal more files.