House Republicans Call Early Christmas Break Before Epstein Files Release

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Source: Newsweek

Published Dec 18, 2025 at 04:07 AM EST updated Dec 18, 2025 at 06:10 AM EST


Republicans in the House have brought their Christmas recess a day forward—before the Department of Justice (DOJ) is scheduled to release a tranche of documents related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to a floor update released by Democratic Whip Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, the House will hold its final votes on Thursday afternoon, a change from the GOP’s previously announced schedule which would have seen these taking place on Friday.

Under the guidelines of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump on November 19, Attorney General Pam Bondi had a 30-day deadline to make publicly available all unclassified materials related to Epstein. Newsweek has contacted the DOJ through its website and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise's D.C. office by phone outside of regular hours for comment.

Why It Matters

There is no evidence that the early recess stems from a desire to interfere with the release of the files, or an indication that the DOJ’s deadline could be affected by the altered schedule. However, many online commentators, as well as some Democratic lawmakers, have connected the decision with GOP leadership’s past reluctance to pursue full disclosure around the Epstein case.

What To Know

According to the text of the Epstein bill, Bondi had until Friday to release all materials in the possession of the DOJ, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices relating to investigations into Epstein, his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, as well as information on travel records, individuals with ties to the pair and his death in 2019. Redactions are allowed, however, to protect the identity of victims and prevent disruption to any active investigations or prosecutions, provided these are accompanied by written justifications.

Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/house-republicans-call-early-christmas-break-before-epstein-files-release-11234307