Mon Nov 17 04:19:14 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Facing mounting pressure and accusations, U.S. President Donald Trump has reversed his stance and is now urging Republican members of Congress to vote to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This follows statements from House Speaker Mike Johnson who believes the release will exonerate Trump from any connection to Epstein. While previously dismissing the files as a “Democrat Hoax,” Trump is now pushing for their release, claiming Republicans have “nothing to hide.” The issue has caused division within the Republican party, with Trump withdrawing support for Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene after her criticism. Democrats are also pushing for the release, with Rep. Ro Khanna predicting significant Republican support for the vote.

News Article:

Trump Urges Republicans to Release Epstein Files Amid Mounting Pressure

WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 17, 2025) – In a dramatic reversal, U.S. President Donald Trump is now urging his fellow Republicans in Congress to vote in favor of releasing long-sought-after files related to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The move comes after weeks of escalating pressure and accusations linking Trump to Epstein’s crimes.

“House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide,” Trump stated on his social media platform, Truth Social, late Sunday. He framed the issue as an attempt by Democrats to deflect from Republican successes.

The President’s call to action followed comments from House Speaker Mike Johnson, who voiced confidence that the release of Justice Department documents would dispel any allegations of Trump’s involvement in Epstein’s abuse and trafficking of underage girls.

While photos of Trump and Epstein together exist from decades ago, the President maintains the two men had a falling out before Epstein’s conviction. Previously released emails suggested Epstein believed Trump was aware of his illicit activities, although the context remains unclear.

This shift in stance represents a significant departure for Trump, who previously dismissed the Epstein files as a “Democrat smear campaign” and has since directed the Department of Justice to investigate prominent Democrats’ ties to Epstein.

The contentious issue has also fractured the Republican party. Trump recently withdrew his support for staunch ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene after she criticized the party’s handling of the Epstein files.

Rep. Ro Khanna, a Democratic sponsor of the petition to release the files, predicts significant bipartisan support, estimating that over 40 Republicans will vote in favor. The House is controlled by Republicans with 219 seats compared to the Democrats’ 214. The coming vote will be a crucial test of party unity and the public’s demand for transparency regarding Epstein’s network.

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