House Republicans Renew Efforts on Epstein Files Legislation

<p>The Epstein files issue that affected the House last year is re-emerging as a concern for Republicans. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) is close to securing enough support to initiate another vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act II.</p><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Massie is seeking one more Republican signature to reach the necessary number to force a vote. Retiring Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) signed Massie's new discharge petition on Monday, joining Massie and Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.). Massie and Mace are targeting retiring Republicans and members in vulnerable districts to secure the fourth signature needed.</p><ul><li>Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), who previously supported Massie's first petition, is considering signing again and has been in discussions with Massie.</li></ul><p><strong>The big picture:</strong> This renewed push is reviving a contentious issue for House Republicans during Trump's second term.</p><ul><li>Last year's Epstein discharge petition caused significant challenges for Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and the White House, ultimately leading to 218 signatures and forcing a vote, which passed with widespread support.</li><li>The Epstein Files Transparency Act II aims to enforce and expand the release of remaining files at the Department of Justice (DOJ).</li><li>Massie stated, "The Department of Justice continues to unlawfully withhold over 3 million Epstein files that should be released to the public. In addition, the DOJ is unlawfully maintaining heavy redactions on the files it is releasing."</li></ul><p><strong>Reality check:</strong> Even if Massie secures the necessary Republican support this week, the House is scheduled to recess until after the November midterms, meaning any potential vote would occur post-election.</p><ul><li>Democrats also need to provide the remaining signatures to reach the 218 required to discharge the bill, although Democratic leadership is encouraging members to sign on.</li><li>Massie views this as a logistical issue, stating, "I haven't found any Democrat who's against it."</li></ul><p><strong>Behind the scenes:</strong> Massie and Mace are focusing their efforts on Republicans who may have less to lose by crossing Trump.</p><ul><li>Massie mentioned, "I've got one hero slot left," and is engaging with members in districts where they are polling significantly behind.</li><li>Mace is also in discussions with Republicans who are retiring and focusing on key Republican districts.</li></ul><p><strong>The intrigue:</strong> Boebert could provide the fourth Republican signature, but Massie does not expect those who previously took political risks to do so again.</p><ul><li>Massie remarked, "Anybody who did the first one is not obligated to put their head in the guillotine again."</li><li>He noted that Norman is a new supporter and believes there are others who can be recruited.</li></ul><p><strong>Between the lines:</strong> Massie has accused Johnson of manipulating the House calendar to limit the time available for a vote.</p><ul><li>Johnson recently canceled two of the House's remaining September workweeks.</li><li>Massie claimed, "He got a call from somebody that's above his pay grade that said, 'Take those two days off the calendar. Don't you dare give Massie the runway to get that plane off the ground.'" Johnson had previously dismissed Massie's concerns about adding recess time.</li></ul>