Washington, D.C. – House lawmakers, including Speaker Mike Johnson, were informed of "additional names" of individuals connected to Jeffrey Epstein during a recent closed-door briefing with six of the late financier's victims. The revelation came as part of the House Oversight Committee's ongoing investigation into the Epstein case, prompting strong reactions from congressional leaders.
Speaker Johnson conveyed the profound impact of the meeting, stating, > "There was outrage. It was both - I would describe it as heartbreaking and infuriating. That justice has been delayed so long." House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) clarified that these "additional names" refer to "persons of interest who would possess information" about Epstein or any alleged co-conspirators, as revealed by the victims.
The emotional two-hour session saw some victims sharing their stories publicly for the first time. This development follows the recent release of over 33,000 pages of documents by the House Oversight Committee related to the federal investigation into Epstein. While the trove included flight logs, surveillance videos, and court filings, many lawmakers and observers noted that much of the material had already been public.
The committee's probe has also involved issuing subpoenas to a dozen former federal officials, including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and several ex-attorneys general and FBI directors, seeking testimony related to the case. This extensive effort aims to bring greater transparency and accountability.
Despite the ongoing committee work, a bipartisan push by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) continues for a full release of all "Epstein files" through a discharge petition. Speaker Johnson has opposed this petition, arguing that the committee's investigation is the more appropriate path, ensuring victim protection. Victims themselves continue to advocate for full disclosure, with some even considering compiling their own lists of names to hold those in Epstein's orbit accountable.