Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie Pushes for Epstein Files Transparency Amid Trump Criticism
Kentucky Republican Congressman Thomas Massie co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the full release of federal documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. The bill passed through Congress in November 2025. Massie has been a persistent critic of former President Donald Trump over issues concerning Epstein file transparency.
In response to Massie's efforts, Trump labeled him a "lowlife Republican" in a Christmas post on Truth Social, criticizing his stance. Massie used the insult to mobilize support and raised approximately $3,000 in campaign donations from over 40 contributors within two hours, gearing up for a 2026 primary race against Trump's endorsed candidate.
Trump has endorsed Ed Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL, to challenge Massie in the 2026 primary. Massie dismissed Gallrein as a failed establishment hack and suggested that Trump's endorsement was driven by panic.
Massie has advocated for the full release of Epstein-related materials and argued that individuals connected to Epstein should face consequences. He referenced prominent figures such as Prince Andrew and former UK ambassador Peter Mandelson in this context.
By the Act's deadline of December 19, 2025, the Department of Justice had not completed the mandated release but did publish some Epstein-related documents. The DOJ stated that over a million additional documents exist, with processing expected to take weeks. Massie, who has served in the House of Representatives since 2012, continues to push for transparency regarding the Epstein files.
