In a move drawing sharp criticism from both sides of the aisle, House Speaker Mike Johnson abruptly adjourned the House of Representatives two days ahead of schedule, effectively blocking a planned vote to subpoena key individuals linked to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
The vote, championed by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, aimed to compel testimony from several high-profile figures whose names have surfaced in connection with Epstein’s vast network. The early adjournment comes amid rising public pressure to further investigate Epstein’s associates and potential enablers, especially following the release of previously sealed court documents earlier this year.
Critics accused Johnson of using procedural powers to protect political allies and prevent further embarrassment to powerful individuals. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called the move “a blatant abuse of power to obstruct justice,” while Republican Representative Matt Gaetz, who had supported the vote, tweeted that the American people “deserve the truth, not backroom deals and closed doors.”
Speaker Johnson defended the decision, citing “legislative fatigue” and the need to give members time in their districts during what he called “a particularly intense legislative season.” However, internal documents obtained by reporters suggest that GOP leadership was actively lobbying against the Epstein vote in the days leading up to the early adjournment, raising questions about Johnson’s stated rationale.
The House Judiciary Committee had planned to present a final motion to subpoena multiple individuals, including names recently redacted from legal filings and others with close ties to Epstein’s inner circle. Several survivors of Epstein’s trafficking ring were set to testify in support of the motion, and their appearance had been widely anticipated.
The abrupt shutdown leaves the motion in limbo until Congress reconvenes in September, potentially giving those named more time to prepare defenses or avoid testimony altogether. Legal experts warn that the delay could hinder momentum in the broader effort to bring Epstein’s network into public light.
The adjournment also sparked protests on Capitol Hill, where advocacy groups supporting survivors of trafficking gathered to denounce what they view as a calculated effort to stall justice. “This isn’t about politics,” said one protester. “It’s about accountability for people who think they’re too powerful to face consequences.”
As outrage builds, Speaker Johnson faces growing calls to reconvene the House and allow the vote to proceed. Thus far, he has remained silent on whether the motion will be rescheduled upon Congress’s return.