The Republican-controlled United States House of Representatives voted this Tuesday on a resolution that forces the Department of Justice to release all files related to Jeffrey Epsteinthe famous tycoon convicted of pedophilia.
The result is striking. 427 congressmen support him. Only one has expressed himself against: the Republican Clay Higginsfrom Louisiana.
It is more than just an anecdote when the president of the United States has tried to prevent any additional access to the documents of the investigation about his friend in case his possible involvement in certain shady matters is discovered.
His change of heart precedes a series of private conversations with Republican lawmakers who warned him that support for the release of the files was inevitable due to pressure from his constituents. Additionally: Three Republican congresswomen signed a petition forcing the vote after reaching the majority needed to force it.
Some analysts highlight that this vote confirms Trump’s loss of influence over his party. During the first ten months of his mandate he managed to impose his will practically without opposition. On this occasion, however, he is overcome by parliamentary reality and the fear of being perceived as an obstacle in the investigations against a pedophile.
Several Republican representatives, such as Lance Gooden y Troy Nehlsannounced their change of position in favor of the disclosure of the files after Trump’s announcement. Others, like Thomas Massieleader of the initiative within the party, indicated that they expected almost unanimous approval in the Chamber.
The resolution ensures that the Department of Justice will protect the identity of the victims. The question is whether the documents will be published immediately or if the Government will try to delay the process with excuses.
And what does Trump say? He denies any involvement in Epstein’s crimes. He claims that it is “a Democrat’s hoax.” She maintains that her relationship with the pedophile died a long time ago. The problem is that several emails have emerged that suggest that Epstein knew that Trump “knew about the girls.” And evidence is accumulating that raises many doubts about the president’s honesty on this issue.