The Daily Beast Podcast This is The Sinister Reason for Trump's Shutdown
Oct 9, 2025
Rep. Ro Khanna, a U.S. Representative from California known for his focus on technology policy, joins Joanna Coles to discuss a critical cover-up in Washington. He argues the Epstein files contain damaging information that needs to be released for transparency and justice. Khanna connects Trump’s role in blocking the release to a system that protects the powerful. He also reveals bipartisan efforts to push for the files' release and highlights the anger of survivors while discussing the moral implications of potential pardons.
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Epstein Files Are Key To Transparency
- Ro Khanna frames the Epstein files as crucial to survivors seeking justice and public transparency.
- He says the files contain evidence of abuse, networks, and witness memos that must be released to restore trust.
Shutdown Used To Block File Vote
- Khanna says House leadership is delaying votes to prevent a 218th signature that would force a vote on releasing the files.
- He links the shutdown and canceled votes directly to blocking the file release rather than policy disagreements.
Powerful Interests Likely Behind Cover-Up
- Khanna asserts powerful people named in the files fear exposure, explaining resistance to release.
- He argues repeated delays deepen public skepticism that the system shields the wealthy.