Senate Rejects Measure to Force Release of Epstein Files in Close 51-49 Vote

The U.S. Senate narrowly voted on September 10, 2025, to block a Democratic measure that sought to compel the release of government files related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein and his sex trafficking case. The amendment, introduced by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, was tied to the annual defense policy bill and would have required the Department of Justice to disclose all remaining Epstein records within 30 days. The final vote was 51-49, with most Republicans voting against the proposal.

While the majority of GOP senators opposed the measure, Republicans Josh Hawley of Missouri and Rand Paul of Kentucky joined Democrats in supporting it, signaling a rare bipartisan call for increased transparency. Still, their votes were not enough to overcome the majority resistance.

Republican leaders criticized the amendment as a distraction and an inappropriate addition to a defense authorization bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune described it as a “political stunt,” arguing that many records had already been made public and cautioning that additional disclosures could risk exposing victims or compromising sensitive information.

Democrats, however, insisted the vote was about accountability and restoring public trust. Schumer emphasized that the American people deserve full transparency regarding Epstein’s connections and dealings, many of which remain shrouded in secrecy. He argued that the public interest in these documents outweighed concerns of political timing.

Public pressure for the release of Epstein-related documents has grown steadily since his 2019 arrest and subsequent death in federal custody. Advocates of disclosure argue that the files may shed light on Epstein’s network of associates and financial backers, fueling calls for accountability at the highest levels.

The defeat of the amendment in the Senate shifts focus to the House of Representatives, where a bipartisan discharge petition led by Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Ro Khanna of California is attempting to force a separate floor vote on legislation requiring the release of Epstein records. The success of that effort remains uncertain, but its momentum underscores the growing bipartisan appetite for transparency on the issue.

For now, the Senate’s decision means the files will remain sealed, leaving questions about Epstein’s ties and influence unanswered and ensuring the controversy will remain a prominent point of debate in Washington.