During separate interviews on NBC News on Sunday, the divide between Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) over the release of Epstein files was stark. Massie advocated for transparency with his bipartisan resolution, while Johnson raised concerns about victim protection. The disagreement extends to the House’s early adjournment for recess, with Massie criticizing Johnson’s decision.
Johnson’s reluctance to commit to a vote on a Republican resolution urging the Justice Department to disclose certain Epstein files adds to the tension. While Johnson aligns with the administration’s cautious approach, Massie and Khanna’s resolution has garnered support from prominent Republicans like Greene, Boebert, and Burchett.
The impasse between Massie and Johnson underscores a broader divide within the GOP, fueled by demands for accountability from Trump supporters following the Justice Department’s decision not to release additional files. Massie’s warning that failure to act on the Epstein files could affect the party in future elections highlights the stakes involved.
