Epstein Files Transparency Act Passes, But Most Americans Doubt Trump Has Followed Through
Trump Signs Epstein Files Transparency Act Amid Public Skepticism
President Donald Trump recently signed a law requiring the Justice Department to release all files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The bipartisan measure, known as the Epstein Files Transparency Act, mandates that the government make all unclassified documents, communications, and investigative records publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format within 30 days.
Despite the law’s passage and overwhelming public support, a new Yahoo/YouGov poll shows that only 25% of Americans believe Trump has “followed through” on his promise to release the files. Nearly half of the respondents (48%) said he has not, while 27% remain unsure.
The Law Wins Massive Public Approval
While opinions about Trump’s action are mixed, the legislation itself is highly popular. The poll indicates that 84% of Americans support the law requiring the release of Epstein-related records, with only 3% opposing it. Approval spans across political lines: Republicans support the law at 83%, independents at 87%, and Democrats at 90%.
This strong backing mirrors a 2019 survey showing that 84% of Americans believed Epstein was guilty of most of the crimes he was charged with. The same percentage also expressed support for the government releasing all related information—a stance that remains consistent today.
Epstein’s Crimes and Death Continue to Raise Questions
Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier, faced federal charges in 2019 for sexually abusing dozens of teenage girls, some as young as 14. He had previously pleaded guilty in 2008 in Florida for procuring a child for prostitution and soliciting a prostitute.
In August 2019, Epstein was found dead in his Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial. His death sparked widespread conspiracy theories, with many alleging that he was murdered to hide the identities of influential individuals connected to him.
- Epstein Files Transparency Act Passes, But Most Americans Doubt Trump Has Followed Through
Trump’s Role and Public Perception
Trump’s handling of the Epstein files has been scrutinized. During his 2020 and 2024 campaigns, he repeatedly suggested he would declassify the files. Yet, the Yahoo/YouGov poll indicates that most Americans remain skeptical about whether he has delivered on that promise.
What the Epstein Files Transparency Act Means
The new law ensures that Americans will have access to previously classified or unreleased Epstein investigation materials. By mandating a public, searchable, and downloadable database, the act aims to bring transparency to one of the most high-profile criminal cases involving elite individuals in recent history.
The legislation’s passage represents a rare bipartisan effort in Congress, with only one lawmaker opposing the bill. It reflects a growing public demand for accountability and openness surrounding Epstein’s crimes and associated investigations.
Moving Forward: Public Expectations vs. Political Reality
Even as the law moves forward, questions remain about how quickly and thoroughly the files will be released. The poll reflects widespread public concern that promises may not translate into action, highlighting a gap between government legislation and public trust.
While the Epstein Files Transparency Act marks a step toward accountability, only time will tell whether the administration will meet public expectations for full disclosure.
