Mike Johnson Backs Discharge Petition for Epstein Files, Axios Reports
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated on Tuesday that he will support a discharge petition aimed at bringing the long‑delayed release of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation files to a vote in the House. The information comes from a source present at a Republican conference meeting, who told Axios that Johnson’s backing was announced publicly, although the speaker continues to press the Senate to amend the related legislation. The move could accelerate congressional scrutiny of the case, which has been pending for several years.
A discharge petition is a procedural tool that allows a majority of House members to force a bill or resolution onto the floor, bypassing the leadership’s scheduling control. In this instance, the petition seeks to overturn a procedural hold that has kept the Epstein‑related documents from being considered. The files contain testimony, evidence and related materials from investigations into the convicted sex offender’s network, and their release has been championed by advocacy groups demanding greater transparency.
Legislative analysts note that Johnson’s support may reflect broader pressure from both party members and constituents who view the Epstein matter as a test of congressional oversight. While the House can move forward if it gathers the requisite 218 signatures, the Senate’s role remains pivotal because any subsequent legislation must still pass the upper chamber. Senate officials have signaled a willingness to review the proposal, though they have not committed to a timetable for action.
Observers anticipate that the petition could reignite debate over the balance between privacy concerns and public interest in high‑profile investigations. If the House successfully brings the measure to a vote and the Senate concurs, the files could be released within the current congressional session, providing investigators and the public with additional insight. Until then, the initiative underscores ongoing efforts by lawmakers to address lingering questions surrounding the Epstein case and to demonstrate responsiveness to calls for accountability.
