Congress votes to release Epstein files after Trump reverses stance

US lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to release government files on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein after President Donald Trump reversed his opposition to the move.

Trump, a former friend of the late sex offender, signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law on Wednesday.

Congress approved the act nearly unanimously, mandating the publication of unclassified documents related to the investigation and Epstein's death, which was ruled a suicide.

Lawmakers stated that the public deserves answers, especially considering the case involves over 1,000 alleged victims.

While Trump claimed the files would expose connections between powerful Democrats and Epstein, the President himself faces scrutiny over his past friendship with the financier.

Despite Trump's pledge to sign the bill, insiders and top Democrat Chuck Schumer warn his administration could still use redactions or delays to keep explosive details buried.