Thomas Massie, U.S. Congressman representing Kentucky’s 4th district since 2012, has called for a House vote on legislation requiring the full release of the Epstein files, using a discharge petition to bypass leadership and bring the measure directly to the floor.
On July 15, 2025, Massie posted, “A discharge petition is a procedural tool for bypassing leadership. In 7 days we can start collecting signatures. At 218 signatures, the House must vote on our bill requiring a full release of the Epstein files. If your Representative won’t sign the discharge petition, ask why.”
The following day, he acknowledged support from fellow lawmakers. On July 16, Massie wrote, “Thank you @RepMTG for cosponsoring this legislation to release the Epstein files. Americans deserve transparency and the victims deserve justice.” Later that day he added, “Thank you @RepTimBurchett for cosponsoring this legislation to release the Epstein files. Americans deserve transparency and the victims deserve justice.”
A discharge petition in Congress allows members to circumvent leadership and force a floor vote if at least 218 members sign on. Massie’s push for disclosure centers on calls for transparency regarding documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.
Massie has served in Congress since replacing Geoff Davis in 2012 and previously held roles in Kentucky state government and local office. Born in Huntington, West Virginia in 1971, he resides in Garrison and holds a degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
