Epstein Files Gridlock Forces Early House Recess; Ghislaine Maxwell Subpoena Planned

The U.S. House of Representatives has abruptly halted its legislative agenda and will begin its August recess earlier than scheduled, effective Wednesday, July 23, 2025. The move comes after a week-long stalemate over the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, paralyzing House proceedings.

The GOP-led Rules Committee, tasked with advancing various bills, came to a standstill on Monday after Democrats announced plans to force a committee vote on bipartisan legislation demanding the release of the Epstein files. Republican members subsequently recessed the meeting indefinitely, with Majority Leader Steve Scalise stating it was “unlikely” the committee would reconvene this week.

Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky), a proponent of releasing the files, expressed frustration, noting, “People have wanted these files for years.” He confirmed his intent to continue working across the aisle to force a vote, though procedural hurdles mean the earliest this could occur is likely after the August recess.

The gridlock has prevented votes on several key measures, including an immigration bill and legislation to establish new ZIP codes. Meanwhile, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has announced plans to subpoena Ghislaine Maxwell “as expeditiously as possible.” The committee will coordinate with the Department of Justice and Bureau of Prisons to arrange a deposition date for Maxwell, who is currently incarcerated.

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