7am Donald Trump’s reversal on the Epstein files
Nov 20, 2025
Political correspondent Bo Erickson from Reuters, who covers Capitol Hill, discusses a historic decision by Congress to release the Epstein files. He examines the surprising Republican unity behind the vote, detailing key figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert who broke from Trump. Erickson highlights Trump's dramatic shift from opposing to supporting the release, the potential fallout within his base, and insights from Epstein survivors on accountability. This revealing conversation sheds light on the political implications of the files.
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Rare Bipartisan Push For File Release
- Congress voted almost unanimously to force release of the Epstein and DOJ investigative files.
- That unity is rare and signals bipartisan pressure on the Trump administration.
Massie Led The Charge For Names
- Representative Thomas Massie led the push and framed it as seeking names of alleged co-conspirators.
- Lawmakers plan to read those names on the House floor if the FBI releases them.
Trump's Dramatic Reversal
- Trump publicly called the focus on the files a 'Democrat hoax' but then backed release.
- That reversal created mixed messaging and political exposure for him.