The Daily

Congress Orders Trump to Release the Epstein Files

412 snips
Nov 19, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Annie Karni, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, decodes the rebellious wave among Republicans that led to the decision to release Jeffrey Epstein's files. Carl Hulse, the Chief Washington correspondent, provides insight on how this reflects changing congressional dynamics and Trump’s influence. Representative Thomas Massie shares his inspiring journey spearheading the discharge petition, revealing the pressure he and others faced. Together, they unravel the implications of this pivotal House vote.
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INSIGHT

Mutiny Shifted Republican Calculus

  • A small group of Republicans forced a partywide shift that compelled Trump to reverse course on Epstein files.
  • The episode shows Congress reclaiming power from the executive when members face voter pressure.
ANECDOTE

How The Discharge Petition Began

  • Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna launched a discharge petition months earlier to force release of Epstein files.
  • Only four Republicans stayed after Trump pressured others, including Lauren Boebert and Marjorie Taylor Greene.
ANECDOTE

Pressure Backfired On Key Republicans

  • Trump personally phoned members and convened Lauren Boebert in the Situation Room to pressure her.
  • Instead of flipping, Boebert and others dug in after receiving supportive constituent feedback during the recess.
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