GOP Leaders Call for Epstein Files, Then Block Vote: Live Updates

[The Barbarian]

House Speaker Mike Johnson drew criticism this week after initially backing the full disclosure of the government's Epstein files, then blocking a vote that would have allowed their release. His reversal comes amid growing MAGA tensions as President Trump calls the Epstein saga "boring" and urges his base to move on.

What to Know:

• Johnson told a podcast he supports transparency, but blocked the House vote.
• Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene echoed his stance, then voted against disclosure.
• Trump now calls the Epstein controversy "boring" and a "hoax," blaming "fake news" and past supporters.
• DOJ and FBI previously released a memo stating that no client list exists, and that Epstein died by suicide.
• Rep. Thomas Massie is pushing for a vote through a discharge petition.
• The reversal has fueled GOP infighting over how to handle the controversy.

 

[Akita Suggagaki]

Spineless. Some people do not deserve to hold any public office.

But please explain "discharge petition" in this context.

 

[Gregory Thompson]

You know, I am reminded of ...

 

[The Barbarian]

Spineless. Some people do not deserve to hold any public office.

But please explain "discharge petition" in this context.

Basically, the move was to put forward a petition to override Johnson's decision to keep the Epstein files covered up. It would require each representative to go on record as to their position. This is why Johnson chose to avoid the petition the only way he could; by adjourning the House before the petition could be heard.