House Speaker Mike Johnson stepped before reporters with a clear objective: to reiterate that the release of the Epstein files must be governed by accuracy, integrity, and respect for the victims at the heart of the scandal.

He framed this issue not simply as a procedural matter but as a defining moment for Congress, emphasizing the need for careful handling of sensitive documents tied to one of the most disturbing criminal networks in modern U.S. history. According to Johnson, the challenge is not whether to release the files—Republicans, he said, fully support transparency—but how to ensure their publication does not retraumatize victims or compromise lingering investigative possibilities. His tone was a blend of resolve and warning, situating his message firmly against what he called politically motivated theatrics emerging from the Democratic side.