Lawmakers are sending a strong message today – but there’s still a long road aheadpublished at 14:59 GMT
14:59 GMT
Cai Pigliucci
Reporting from Capitol Hill
Image source, ReutersImage caption,
Democratic Representative Ro Khanna hugs Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene
Many victims of Epstein have now spoken here, across from the steps of the Capitol.
One pointed to the statue of a woman on top of the Capitol dome that represents freedom, while saying she does not feel free today.
The victims have all said they think the release of the Epstein files should go beyond politics, and beyond partisan divides.
The vote to release those files is expected in the House this afternoon. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene said she thinks it will be unanimous.
If that’s true, it may be hard for the Senate to ignore such a strong message. Senate Republican leader John Thune has not committed yet to putting it to a vote.
If he goes forward with that, it would need to pass by a two-third majority to be sent to President Trump’s desk.
He’s said he would sign it, but there is still a long road ahead until the public – and survivors – may see these files fully released.