Democrats in the United States have invoked an obscure law to pressure President Donald Trump to release files related to the investigation into sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democrats on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee wrote to the Justice Department, citing the “rule of five,” which requires government departments to provide relevant information if requested by five members of the Senate’s chief watchdog panel.
The request comes amid intense scrutiny over Trump’s past relationship with Epstein, who died in federal prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. Trump claimed he fell out with Epstein after Epstein allegedly “stole” employees from the spa at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. However, Trump’s supporters were angered when the Justice Department said Epstein had no “client list,” contradicting conspiracy theories about high-profile Democrats’ involvement.
The White House has faced growing demands for transparency regarding Epstein’s case. Federal prosecutors have urged two judges to release testimony to a grand jury that indicted Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell on sex trafficking charges. In court filings, prosecutors said unsealing the materials would be appropriate given the “abundant public interest” in the case.
Schumer criticized Trump for not releasing the Epstein files as promised during his campaign. “Donald Trump promised he would release the Epstein files while he was on the campaign trail. He made that promise, and he has yet to do it,” Schumer said on the Senate floor. Democrats have also sought to attach votes on the Epstein files to unrelated bills, prompting House Speaker Mike Johnson to send lawmakers home for the summer early.
Lawmakers have been seeking testimony from Maxwell, who is serving 20 years in prison for her role in Epstein’s crimes. Maxwell’s lawyer has said she would speak to the House Oversight Committee if granted immunity for her testimony. However, the committee has refused to consider granting immunity.
The controversy surrounding Epstein’s case has divided Trump’s Republican Party and led to increased scrutiny of his administration. Trump’s approval rating has dropped to its lowest level in his second term, with polls showing mixed feelings about his handling of the economy and immigration.²