US President Donald Trump is bracing for a potentially damaging congressional vote over the release of files related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The vote, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks, comes amid increasing scrutiny of Trump's relationship with Epstein, who was charged with sex trafficking before his death in 2019.
Epstein Files Controversy Heats Up
The controversy surrounding Epstein's files has been simmering for months, with many lawmakers calling for greater transparency and accountability from the Trump administration. In August, a report by the Miami Herald revealed that Trump's then-attorney, Alan Dershowitz, had represented Epstein in a 2007 plea deal that allowed Epstein to avoid a federal trial on sex trafficking charges.
Trump has repeatedly claimed that he had no knowledge of Epstein's activities, but the report has raised suspicions that Trump may have been aware of Epstein's dealings. Now, lawmakers are pushing for the release of files related to Epstein's activities, including any potential communications between Trump and Epstein.
Congressional Vote Looms Large
The congressional vote is expected to be a closely watched event, with many lawmakers weighing in on the controversy. In a statement, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler said that the committee would "aggressively pursue" the release of Epstein's files, citing the need for greater transparency and accountability.
The vote is likely to be contentious, with Trump's allies pushing back against the release of the files. In a statement, White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany said that the administration was "committed to transparency" but would not release files that were "protected by executive privilege."
Trump's Relationship with Epstein Scrutinized
As the congressional vote looms, Trump's relationship with Epstein is coming under increasing scrutiny. In 2002, Trump was photographed with Epstein at a dinner party in New York, and in 2003, Trump interviewed with Epstein's magazine, Mar-a-Lago, for a profile.
Trump has repeatedly claimed that he had no relationship with Epstein, but the photographs and interview suggest otherwise. Now, lawmakers are calling for greater transparency about Trump's dealings with Epstein, including any potential financial ties between the two men.
As the controversy surrounding Epstein's files continues to heat up, Trump is facing growing pressure from lawmakers to release the files. The outcome of the congressional vote remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Trump administration's handling of the Epstein files will be closely watched in the coming weeks and months.