House Speaker Mike Johnson's decision to keep the House of Representatives out of session during the ongoing government shutdown has resulted in a delay of votes on various issues, notably the Jeffrey Epstein files. Johnson announced that the House will remain adjourned until the Senate approves a funding bill previously passed by the House.
This situation has drawn attention from Rep. Thomas Massie, who claims the recess is strategically preventing a vote on his "discharge petition." This petition, which requires 218 signatures to force a vote, aims to release the Justice Department's investigatory files on Epstein. Massie has secured 217 signatures and is awaiting the swearing-in of Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, who won her election to fill her late father's seat. However, Grijalva cannot be sworn in until the House reconvenes.
Johnson, in response to the situation, has stated that the discharge petition is rendered "moot" since the House Oversight Committee has already subpoenaed the Epstein material and received thousands of documents from the Justice Department. He emphasized that bipartisan cooperation within the Oversight Committee is focused on ensuring transparency regarding the Epstein files.
Meanwhile, Massie has expressed skepticism regarding the Justice Department's willingness to provide complete access to Epstein's materials and accused Johnson of deliberately delaying the swearing-in of Grijalva to obstruct the petition process. Grijalva herself has voiced concerns over the impact of this delay on her ability to serve her constituents effectively.
Despite the House's current stalemate, any legislation regarding the Epstein files would still face significant hurdles in the Senate and potential opposition from the president.