On November 10, 2025, U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune spoke to reporters outside his office as the federal government entered its 41st day of shutdown. A significant legislative development occurred shortly thereafter, as a bipartisan bill mandating the release of files related to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was passed by both chambers of Congress. The House of Representatives approved the measure on November 9, and the Senate quickly followed suit the next day, aided by a unanimous consent agreement facilitated by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The bill will require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all unclassified records connected to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. President Donald Trump has indicated that he intends to sign the bill, although the exact timing of this signing remains uncertain as he reviews the legislation.
Support for the bill was robust in the House, garnering nearly unanimous approval, with only one dissenting vote from Republican Rep. Clay Higgins. Trump's recent comments have shifted to align with the bill's momentum, urging Republican members to support the measure after previously expressing skepticism about the focus on Epstein.
Despite this, Trump has criticized ongoing inquiries into Epstein as a "hoax," suggesting they are politically motivated attempts to distract from his administration's achievements. Reports have highlighted Trump's past association with Epstein, including a controversial letter signed by Trump that was referenced in a Wall Street Journal article.
The House Oversight Committee has also unveiled thousands of documents from Epstein’s estate, which include emails mentioning Trump. This legislative progress comes amid a backdrop of political turmoil and public scrutiny regarding the implications of Epstein's connections and the ongoing government shutdown.