Epstein survivors join Democrats to press for accountability hours before State of the Union

The Hill
by Max Rego
February 24, 2026
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Epstein survivors join Democrats to press for accountability hours before State of the Union
Jeffrey Epstein’s survivors joined congressional Democrats just hours before President Trump’s State of the Union address to demand accountability and full compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. During a news conference hosted by the Democratic Women’s Caucus, multiple victims shared their experiences and urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all files related to Epstein’s criminal network. This collective effort highlights the ongoing push for transparency and justice in one of the most high-profile cases of sexual exploitation and money laundering. The event comes amid growing scrutiny of Epstein’s connections to powerful individuals, including former President Donald Trump, who has faced criticism over his ties to the disgraced financier. Survivors emphasized the importance of accountability not just for Epstein but also for those who enabled his predatory behavior. They pointed out that the statute of limitations for some related cases is expiring, which could hinder efforts to bring perpetrators to justice. This moment underscores the political stakes surrounding the Epstein case as Democrats aim to use the issue to highlight gaps in legal and law enforcement accountability. With the State of the Union address looming, the timing of the survivors’ statements adds urgency to their demands, potentially setting the stage for a broader conversation about justice reform and transparency in Washington. The event not only amplifies the voices of Epstein’s victims but also raises questions about how the DOJ is handling similar cases and whether political pressure influences its decisions. This issue resonates with voters interested in politics and justice, making it a key talking point in ongoing debates over accountability in government.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/24/2026