Full Breakdown
Rep. Thomas Massie’s Drive to Force Full Release of the Epstein Files
9/4/2026, 9:53:26 PM
Legislative Push Behind the “Epstein Files Transparency Act II”
Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act II in July 2026. The bill would give state attorneys general, victims and members of Congress a private right of action to sue over withheld Epstein-related records, let victims obtain unredacted files about themselves, and impose penalties on DOJ and FBI officials who conceal or falsify records.
Prior Law and Context
The original Epstein Files Transparency Act was signed by President Donald Trump in November 2025 after a bipartisan effort led by Massie and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA). That law required the DOJ to release interview transcripts, emails, visitor logs and other investigative materials. By late 2025 the DOJ had published roughly 3.5 million pages, 2,000 videos and 180,000 images; Massie says “over three million files” remain hidden.
Congressional Support and Signature Drive
More than 100 lawmakers have signed a discharge petition to force a floor vote on the new bill; as of early September 2026 the petition has “more than three dozen” signatures, according to Spectrum News. Massie says he needs four additional Republicans to reach the 218-signature threshold that would compel a vote in the 218-member House. Current supporters include Democrats Ro Khanna, Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) and Republican Nancy Mace (R-SC).
Data & Public Opinion
- Poll (Feb 27 – Mar 2 2026): 26 % of U.S. adults approved of Trump’s handling of the Epstein investigations, 57 % disapproved; 68 % believed the government was covering up evidence. The poll surveyed 1,124 adults.
- File counts: Massie alleges the DOJ is still withholding “over three million files.”
Official Statements & Responses
- FBI Director Kash Patel (Feb 2026) pledged: “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned — and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued.”
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche (July 2026) met with survivors and families, defending DOJ compliance while acknowledging “some mistakes were made.”
Criticism & Opposition
Survivor Annie Farmer expressed frustration with the DOJ’s handling of the files. The YouGov poll reflects broader public skepticism, with a majority suspecting a cover-up. No other named officials have publicly opposed the bill, but the need for additional Republican signatures indicates partisan hesitation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- File volume: Massie’s claim of “over three million files” withheld contrasts with the DOJ’s statement that it has already released “nearly 3.5 million pages” and that any remaining material is exempt.
- Signature count: Newsweek reports “more than 100” signatures, while Spectrum News cites “more than three dozen,” showing a discrepancy in reported support levels.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s been a year since the president signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and the government continues to withhold over three million files,” — Rep. Thomas Massie
- “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned — and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued,” — FBI Director Kash Patel
What’s Next
Massie’s discharge petition must secure the 218-signature threshold before the current congressional term ends. If met, the House would be required to vote on the bill; otherwise the effort may stall until the next session, when Democrats anticipate revisiting the issue.
