GOP’s Clay Higgins stands alone against releasing Jeffrey Epstein’s secret files
Republican Rep. Clay Higgins has become the sole lawmaker to oppose a bill releasing Jeffrey Epstein’s case files. While most colleagues—including many Republicans—supported the move, Higgins stood alone in his objection. His stance has drawn attention, especially given his history of controversial statements and strong political alignment with former President Donald Trump.
The bill to unseal Epstein’s files passed with broad bipartisan backing. Higgins, however, argued that releasing the documents could harm innocent individuals named in the investigation. He proposed amending the legislation to protect their privacy, but the Senate rejected any changes.
Higgins also pushed for further action on the Epstein case. He called on the House Judiciary Committee to investigate how the justice system handled the matter. Additionally, he urged the subcommittee to subpoena former President Bill Gates, who had past associations with Epstein.
This isn’t the first time Higgins has faced scrutiny. In 2020, Facebook removed one of his posts for threatening violence, citing policy violations. A year later, Democrats attempted to censure him over racist remarks about Haitian immigrants. His opposition to the Epstein bill aligns with his broader record of defying mainstream positions, even within his own party.
As a member of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, Higgins remains a vocal Trump ally. His recent actions reinforce his reputation for taking hardline stances, regardless of political consequences.
The Epstein files will now be released without the privacy safeguards Higgins requested. His efforts to subpoena Gates and probe the justice system’s handling of the case remain unresolved. The episode highlights his willingness to break ranks, even when most Republicans and Democrats agree.
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