Kansas senators explain votes blocking Epstein file release

KANSAS (KSNT) – Politics are delaying the release of files from the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case.

Republicans, including Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall, have called for the files to be made public. The Trump administration previously released select documents. Epstein and Trump had a personal connection.

Marshall and fellow Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) were among those who voted to table an amendment from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) that would have directed the Justice Department to release all Epstein files. They said their opposition was because the proposal was tied to a defense policy package.

Moran said the move “risked derailing traditionally bipartisan legislation that authorizes a pay raise for our troops, directs national security priorities and helps promote the safety of our nation.”

Marshall called it a “political stunt” that held servicemembers “hostage.”

Schumer’s amendment was included in the annual defense policy bill, ensuring a Senate vote. It was rejected 51-49, with only two Republicans, Sens. Rand Paul and Josh Hawley, voting against tabling the measure. The proposal would have required the U.S. attorney general to release all unclassified records related to Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, vehicle manifests, names connected to Epstein’s crimes, entities tied to Epstein and information related to his death.

Moran said he wants Democrats to pass a bill requiring the justice department to submit a detailed report on the files to Congress.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.