Democrats Aim to Expose Epstein Records and Showcase GOP Divisions

Phoenix, Jul 16 (AP) — In the latest twist in the Jeffrey Epstein saga, Democrats are seizing the opportunity to press for the release of records and spotlight rifts within Republican ranks. The scandal, mainly fixated upon by the political right, revolves around Epstein's mysterious death in prison and the alleged "client list" linked to his sex trafficking operations—claims that former President Donald Trump himself has fueled.

Last week, when the Justice Department decided against releasing further evidence, Democrats saw a strategic opening. Some influential Republicans are resisting Trump's calls to move on, highlighting a divide that could weaken Trump's formidable MAGA following. This aggressive stand by Democrats may also satisfy sections of their base longing for a confrontational approach toward Republicans.

Among the prominent voices is Rep. Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California, who is seen as a likely 2028 presidential contender. On Tuesday, he signaled to Republican Vice President JD Vance, questioning his stance on the Epstein files. Echoing a tweet from 2020 Republican hopeful Nikki Haley, Khanna asked Vance where he currently stands on the issue. Both Vance and Haley are potential candidates in the 2028 presidential race.

The MAGA community is experiencing a split, with followers upset over the abrupt retreat of the Justice Department and FBI on the existence of an alleged elite Epstein client list. Some supporters accuse Trump of being "out of touch" while demanding more transparency.

Trump, on his part, has attempted to downplay the Epstein controversy. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, he expressed bewilderment over public interest in the case and questioned the credibility of related documents, suggesting without evidence that they may have been fabricated by former FBI Director James Comey and predecessors Obama and Biden.

Republican leaders now find themselves in a difficult position, torn between loyalty to Trump and factions within their base eager to uncover a perceived widespread conspiracy involving elites. Notably, House Speaker Mike Johnson broke ranks on Tuesday, advocating for the release of all Epstein-related documents.

The issue has reached the House floor, with debates spilling into a late-night House Rules Committee meeting. Massachusetts Rep. Jim McGovern, a top Democrat, proposed amendments calling for the release of the Epstein files. The first vote, with a lone Republican, Rep. Ralph Norman, siding with Democrats, did not pass. The second amendment was rejected strictly along party lines.

House Democrats are now spotlighting Republicans who flip-flopped on their stance regarding the Epstein records. The House Majority PAC, aligned with Democrats, targets GOP representatives like Nancy Mace and Scott Perry, accusing them of complicity in a Trump administration bid to suppress the documents.

Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries argued for Congress to step in if the Trump administration continues its inaction, emphasizing the public's right to complete transparency on Epstein's affair. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer also joined calls for immediate file releases, adding to the pressure on Republicans. (AP) PY PY