Key Takeaways

• House Speaker Mike Johnson denies shutting the House to hide Epstein files
• Johnson blames Senate Democrats for keeping the government closed
• He calls the accusation “absurd” and a “red herring”
• Johnson did not explain why he won’t call the House into session by itself

Mike Johnson Responds to Epstein Files Criticism

House Speaker Mike Johnson faced a tough question on live TV. NBC host Kristen Welker asked if he blocked the release of Jeffrey Epstein files by keeping the House closed. She pointed out that he won’t swear in a new Democratic member from Arizona. That new vote could force release of those files.

However, Johnson quickly changed the subject. He called the claim “totally absurd” and a “red herring.” Instead, he blamed Senate Democrats for the shutdown. According to him, they refuse to vote to reopen the government.

Why Mike Johnson Calls the Claim Absurd

Johnson said his decision has nothing to do with Epstein. He insisted he closed the House because Senate leaders want it that way. Moreover, he argued that Senate Democrats vote multiple times to keep the shutdown alive. He even accused Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of seeking political cover. Johnson claimed Schumer fears a tough re-election fight against a Marxist challenger in New York.

In his view, the Epstein files issue distracts from the real fight in the Senate. He said, “We need them to turn the lights back on so that everyone can do their work.” Yet, he did not show a clear rule that forces him to keep the House closed while the Senate debates.

What Happened with the House Session?

Recently, a new Democratic Congresswoman from Arizona won her seat. She must be sworn in before taking her vote. Until then, the House stays technically closed. Many Democrats argue that Johnson refuses to call the House back just to block the vote. If she joined, the Democrats could have the votes to demand more transparency on the Epstein files.

Johnson, however, said his choice did not relate to any files. Instead, he said he followed standard House procedures. He claimed that since the Senate gridlock continues, the House will stay dark too.

The Epstein Files Controversy

Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019 while facing federal charges. After his death, pressure built to release his court records. Those documents could reveal new names and evidence connected to his network. Many Democrats and some Republicans want full public access.

Opponents argue the files may contain personal data and unverified claims. They say releasing every detail could harm innocent people. So far, only parts of the files made it public. Advocates for release point to transparency and justice for Epstein’s victims.

Why the Government Remains Closed

According to Johnson, Senate Democrats hold the key to reopening the government. He blamed Schumer and 43 others for voting against the House plan. He said they prefer to stay shut down to protect vulnerable senators. In his words, “They’re doing this to get political cover.”

Yet, House rules allow the Speaker to call the chamber into session at any time. Johnson did not explain why he refuses to use that power. Many experts stress that the Speaker has wide discretion over the House floor schedule.

What Comes Next

As the shutdown drags on, pressure mounts on both sides. Democrats demand the swearing in of the Arizona congresswoman. They also insist on full access to the Epstein files. Meanwhile, Republicans want concessions on budget and border issues.

If the Arizona member wins her seat, her vote could sway demand for file release. In turn, the spotlight may shift back to Epstein’s case. On the other hand, if Johnson holds firm, the shutdown could last weeks more.

Public Reaction and Political Fallout

Many voters feel frustrated by the fight. They see it as a power play, not a real policy debate. Some moderate Republicans worry the shutdown hurts local services and puts more strain on vulnerable families. Democratic leaders accuse Johnson of using the shutdown as a stunt.

Meanwhile, media outlets continue to chase every twist in the Epstein file saga. They wonder if new revelations will rock both parties. If sensitive material does come out, it could open fresh investigations.

Understanding the Speaker’s Power

The U.S. Constitution gives each chamber its own rules. In practice, the Speaker of the House controls the legislative agenda. That includes deciding when to hold votes and swearing in new members. Therefore, critics say Johnson could call the House back at any moment.

Still, Johnson argues that he collaborates with Senate leaders on major moves. He claims a joint strategy helps avoid mixed signals in Washington. Yet, this stance puzzles many political observers.

Looking Ahead

For now, the deadlock continues. Mike Johnson stands by his choice. He rejects any link to Epstein files. At the same time, Democrats vow to push for full transparency.

In the weeks ahead, all eyes will be on vote counts in both chambers. If the government stays closed, essential services may face cuts. Yet a quick compromise could reopen doors and focus attention back on policy debates.

Only time will tell if the Epstein files become public or remain under wraps. Meanwhile, Mike Johnson’s decision to keep the House closed may define his tenure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Epstein files?

They include court records, witness statements, and legal filings linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal case. Many want them public to learn the full story of his network.

Who is the new congresswoman from Arizona?

She is a Democrat who won a recent special election. Once sworn in, she could shift the House balance on key votes, including file release.

Can the Speaker reopen the House alone?

Yes. The Speaker controls the floor schedule and can call members in at any time. Tradition sometimes leads to coordination with the Senate.

Why do some oppose releasing all Epstein files?

Opponents warn the records may include unverified claims and private data. They fear harm to innocent people and legal challenges.