Epstein Survivors Demand Release of Files on Capitol Hill

Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s sex abuse convened on Capitol Hill, issuing a forceful public demand for the release of all investigative files related to the late financier’s criminal network. Their call follows the disclosure of over 30,000 pages of documents but insists that far more critical information remains shielded from public view. The survivors, joined by bipartisan members of Congress, are urging the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act—a bill that would compel the Department of Justice to release all records, including flight logs, immunity deals, internal communications, and documents about Epstein's detention and death.

Survivors' Testimonies and Legislative Push

At a press conference, survivors recounted their personal stories of abuse and trauma, emphasizing the importance of transparency not only for justice but also for preventing future harm. Family members of deceased accuser Virginia Giuffre Roberts spoke emotionally, highlighting the ongoing impact of Epstein’s crimes on victims and their families. The survivors stressed that the secrecy surrounding the case perpetuates cycles of abuse and protects powerful individuals who may have been complicit. The proposed legislation would prohibit the withholding of documents on the grounds of embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity—a direct rebuke to historical patterns of institutional cover-up.

Bipartisan lawmakers appeared alongside the survivors, voicing support for the bill but acknowledging that it currently lacks sufficient Republican backing to advance. They argued that releasing the files is essential to restoring faith in the justice system and holding all responsible parties accountable, regardless of their status or connections. The survivors and their advocates are also compiling a list of Epstein’s known associates, aiming to shed light on the breadth of his network.

Broader Implications and Next Steps

The survivors’ demands have intensified pressure on the Justice Department and the Trump administration, with direct appeals made to President Trump to intervene and ensure the files’ release. Advocates argue that transparency alone is not enough; survivors also need protection, resources, and legal support. The event has drawn significant media attention, signaling a broader reckoning with institutional secrecy and the treatment of sexual abuse survivors in high-profile cases. As the debate continues, the outcome of the legislative effort and the Justice Department’s response remain uncertain, but the survivors’ unified message is clear: “We matter now.”