American lawmakers call for 'justice in the US' after Andrew arrest
BBC World
February 19, 2026
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American lawmakers have called for greater accountability in the Jeffrey Epstein case following the arrest of Prince Andrew on charges of misconduct in public office. They are urging the U.S. government to take stronger action against individuals connected to Epstein, similar to how the UK handled Andrew's case. Congressman Thomas Massie and Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna highlighted their role in compelling the justice department to release Epstein-related files last year, which linked Andrew to Epstein.
The arrest marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to hold powerful figures accountable. While Andrew has denied any wrongdoing, lawmakers are pushing for him to testify about his ties to Epstein. House Oversight Committee leader Rep. Suhas Subramanyam emphasized that Andrew's cooperation is voluntary but noted victims' satisfaction with his loss of titles, signaling long-awaited accountability.
Lawmakers view Andrew's arrest as a breakthrough in the fight against the influence of wealthy and powerful individuals who have evaded justice for decades. They are determined to pursue all those involved, including other high-profile names implicated in the Epstein files, such as Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and others. This push reflects broader public demand for transparency and accountability, particularly among influential figures.
The case has sparked global interest, with even President Trump weighing in, calling the situation "sad" but not addressing the core issues directly. As investigations continue, lawmakers remain committed to ensuring no one—regardless of their status—is above the law, aiming to bring closure to victims and restore faith in justice systems worldwide.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/19/2026