Releasing Epstein files can 'bring the country together,' says Rep. Ro Khanna

Source: NPR

Updated September 2, 2025 1:28 PM ET


As members of Congress return to Washington, they'll face continued public demand for the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

President Trump and his administration have been unable to shake public scrutiny after the Department of Justice announced in early July that an incriminating "client list" of rich and powerful Epstein associates does not exist — backtracking on statements made by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in February. During the presidential campaign, Trump also said he would be open to releasing files related to Epstein.

Now, Congress has a chance to consider the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act — co-sponsored by Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif. The measure would require the release of unclassified files the government has related to Epstein. The resolution was introduced in July and prompted House Speaker Mike Johnson to send members home early for recess.

Releasing the files is "a way to bring the country together," Khanna said in an interview with Morning Edition. "A nation that cannot hold accountable rich and powerful men who have abused young girls is a nation that has lost its moral and spiritual bearings," Khanna said. "We have an opportunity to do something in a nonpartisan way to seek justice for these victims." Khanna and Massie plan to circulate a discharge petition that requires 218 signatures to bypass House leadership and force a vote on their bill. They also plan to appear with Epstein survivors on Capitol Hill on Wednesday.

Read more: https://www.npr.org/2025/09/02/nx-s1-5524941/rep-ro-khanna-discusses-bipartisan-demand-for-doj-to-release-epstein-files