On September 1, 2026, Rep. Thomas Massie named 14 associates he claims aided convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his crimes while speaking from the House floor. Massie highlighted the time elapsed since President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandated the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release millions of documents related to Epstein's sex-trafficking activities. He stated that the government is still withholding over 3 million files.
Among those named were former JPMorgan executive Jes Staley, billionaire investor Leon Black, and businessman Les Wexner, all of whom have testified before the House committee investigating Epstein's activities regarding their connections to him. Massie also mentioned Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, who lost his royal titles due to his association with Epstein. Additionally, he accused former Epstein assistant Lesley Groff of conspiring with Epstein in trafficking women, stating she was 'not a victim.'
Massie noted that inclusion in the Epstein files does not imply wrongdoing, but many of the individuals named have experienced negative repercussions. He criticized the DOJ for its redactions and expressed hope that naming these individuals would prompt the agency to take action. Furthermore, Massie announced a discharge petition for an Epstein Files Transparency Act II, aiming to grant state courts greater access to files for prosecutions and to provide closure for survivors. He mentioned that he is in the process of collecting the necessary 218 signatures to force a House vote on the proposal, needing three additional Republican signatures if all Democrats support it.
Massie conveyed to the Washington Times that he is optimistic about reaching the required threshold after the November elections if Democrats regain the House majority.