On September 3, 2025, a bipartisan group of lawmakers and survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s sexual abuse gathered at the U.S. Capitol to demand the release of case files, while President Donald Trump dismissed the escalating controversy as a political hoax.
The press conference featured nearly a dozen women who shared their experiences of abuse, some speaking publicly for the first time, emphasizing the real trauma and calling for accountability. Survivors directly addressed President Trump, with Haley Robson inviting him to meet in person to understand the reality, and Anouska de Georgiou pleading for his influence to aid their cause. Shortly after, Trump responded from the Oval Office, characterizing the push as a Democrat hoax and a distraction from his administration’s successes. Notably, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a close Trump ally, supported the survivors, stating it was a moral issue beyond politics and revealing she had urged Trump to meet with them. Rep. Thomas Massie is leading a discharge petition to force a House vote on releasing documents, accusing the administration of redacting information to protect donors and friends. House Speaker Mike Johnson opposes the petition, arguing that the Oversight Committee’s investigation is sufficient, though Democrats note that released documents contain little new information. The White House has warned lawmakers against supporting Massie’s bill, viewing it as hostile, highlighting internal GOP divisions. Survivors and advocates remain determined, vowing to hold lawmakers accountable, with the situation fluid as the petition needs more support to proceed.