We Are Never Going To See The Epstein Files
Adelita Grijalva has finally been sworn in as the newest member of Congress, and has officially become the final and 218th signature needed on the discharge petition to force a House vote to release the Epstein files. A significant number of Republicans have stated that they will vote in favor of the measure. Once the vote passes the House (and it looks like it will), it goes to the Senate. And here is where things get dicey.
Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune has already stated that he is against voting on the measure in the Senate, so it is likely that he will simply refuse to bring it to a vote, there. However, even if Thune allows a vote for the measure in the Senate – and if it passes – the measure then goes to Donald Trump for a signature. As the one who stands to lose the most from the release of the files, it’s not just likely that Trump will veto the measure, it’s a certainty. While Congress can attempt to override such a veto by calling for another vote in the House and Senate, they would need a two-thirds majority to win. This is highly unlikely – only 106 Presidential vetoes have ever been overridden since 1789.
What’s the point then, you ask?
I’m sorry to say it, but it isn’t about releasing the files or justice for the victims. The point is to back Republicans into a corner. While the Epstein files may never see the light of public scrutiny, the issue is deeply popular with both Democrats and MAGA. In short, any Republican who votes against the measure is going to be crucified by their constituents and most likely ending their political careers. The Republican party is increasingly falling into chaos over this, and Democrats are capitalizing on the opportunity that just the idea of the Epstein files being released – however unlikely – affords them.
Sadly, while politicians continue to wrangle over political leverage stemming from this scandal, the victims of the terrible crimes that occurred still have not received true justice. Rich, powerful and highly influential people sexually assaulted underaged girls for years through Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. And rich, powerful and highly influential people are doing everything in their considerable power to hide them (or themselves).
Will they succeed?