Massie Warns GOP Risk Midterm Liability by Blocking Epstein Vote

House Speaker Mike Johnson Condemns Discharge Petition on Epstein Files

House Speaker Mike Johnson has voiced strong criticism against a discharge petition that would compel the U.S. House to vote on releasing federal files related to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to Johnson, the petition is "reckless" in its drafting and presentation, raising concerns about how it addresses the protection of victims.

The discharge petition has been spearheaded by Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who are pushing for the release of these documents. Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, emphasized that while his party supports the release of credible evidence connected to Epstein, they also prioritize the safety and well-being of victims.

"We are also insisting upon the protection of innocent victims," Johnson stated during an interview on NBC News. He added that the current version of the bill does not adequately address these protections, which he believes could put vulnerable individuals at risk.

Defenders of the Bill Challenge Leadership's Position

In response to Johnson’s criticism, Massie and Khanna defended their legislation, arguing that it includes necessary safeguards. During an appearance on NBC News, Massie dismissed Johnson’s claims as a "straw man argument." He highlighted that the bill ensures victims' names will be redacted and that no child pornography will be released.

This debate highlights growing tensions within the Republican Party over the Epstein files. The issue has sparked conspiracy theories among some members of the party's MAGA base and has drawn frustration from supporters of former President Donald Trump.

Trump's Response and Political Implications

Trump, who had a long-standing relationship with Epstein before their falling out in the mid-2000s, has largely avoided addressing the matter. When asked about Epstein, he claimed, "I have nothing to do with the guy."

The Trump administration has faced increasing scrutiny after the Justice Department reversed its earlier decision to release the files. This reversal has fueled further controversy and speculation about the potential involvement of others in Epstein's crimes.

Massie criticized Johnson for starting the August recess early, which he argued was an attempt to avoid holding a vote on the Epstein-related measures. He suggested that not voting on the bill could lead to political consequences, particularly in the upcoming midterms.

"I'll tell you what's politically going to be a liability is, if we don't vote on this, and we go into the midterms and everybody ... they just check out because Republicans didn't keep their promise," Massie said on ABC News. He warned that failing to act could result in losing the majority in Congress.

Broader Support and Legal Developments

Some Democrats, including Reps. Nancy Pelosi and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have also expressed support for the bill. Massie was questioned about the possibility of a pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell, a key accomplice of Epstein.

"I don't think she deserves that or needs that," Massie said, adding that it is time to uncover who else may have been involved in the crimes. He emphasized the need to examine documents, bank records, and plea bargains that were previously sealed.

Recently, Maxwell was granted limited immunity by the Justice Department, allowing her to answer questions from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche without fear of future legal repercussions. This move has raised further questions about the extent of the investigation into Epstein's network.

Final Remarks on Pardons

When asked about the possibility of a presidential pardon for Maxwell, Johnson reiterated that such decisions fall under the president's authority. "Obviously that's a decision of the president," he said, adding, "that's not my lane." This statement underscores the complex interplay between legislative and executive branches in handling high-profile cases like Epstein's.