New signature triggers Epstein files release push in house

Norfolk, Neb. — A newly sworn-in Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.) has provided the final signature needed to trigger a discharge petition aimed at releasing documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.

House Speaker Mike Johnson plans a vote next week on a measure that would force the Justice Department to make the Epstein documents public.

The move follows renewed scrutiny of the case and allegations surrounding Epstein's activities.

Senator Pete Ricketts, speaking after a visit to Northeast Community College, emphasized the need for transparency while also stressing the importance of protecting victims' identities.

"We need to have transparency, and part of the House oversight process is to make sure we are protecting the victims' identities as we are releasing these documents. That still needs to be respected as we’re going through this, but I absolutely support transparency," Ricketts said.

The upcoming vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act," would compel the Attorney General Pam Bondi to make all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in the Department of Justice's possession publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format.

House Republican leaders have not yet announced the specific timing or procedural details for the vote.