Thu Dec 18 12:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law last month, mandates the Justice Department to publicly release unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein by December 19th. Representative Ro Khanna, a sponsor of the bill, is urging the DOJ to comply and warning of potential legal and congressional repercussions if the deadline is missed. While the DOJ has released some documents, progress has been slow. Khanna believes the files will reveal details about powerful individuals involved in Epstein’s activities, including those on his private island and those who may have influenced local law enforcement and the FBI. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton assured that his office would meet its obligations under the act. The law aims to shed light on Epstein’s network and activities and provide some closure to his victims, though it’s unlikely to quell all conspiracy theories.
News Article:
Deadline Looms for Epstein Files Release: Will DOJ Comply?
Washington, D.C. – With the December 19th deadline fast approaching, pressure is mounting on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release unclassified files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), a key sponsor of the legislation, expressed cautious optimism but warned of potential consequences if the DOJ fails to meet the deadline. These include congressional scrutiny and potential legal action.
“The law requires DOJ to make the files public by Dec. 19,” Khanna told NBC News. “There would be repercussions if it doesn’t.”
The act aims to expose individuals, including government officials, and entities connected to Epstein’s criminal activities, settlements, and investigations. Khanna believes the files will shed light on Epstein’s network and the abuse that occurred on his Caribbean island. He also contends these files could reveal instances of powerful men influencing local police and the FBI.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton of the Southern District of New York, whose office prosecuted Epstein co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, has indicated his office will be prepared to release the relevant records.
The DOJ has faced criticism for slow-walking previous disclosures related to the Epstein case. While the House Oversight Committee received over 33,000 pages of documents in September, Republicans on the committee said this was only the first batch.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act allows for the withholding of records that could jeopardize ongoing investigations, but Khanna believes these exceptions should be minimal. He acknowledged the release of the files might not end all conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein, but he hoped it would provide some closure to his victims.
First Piper 