Epstein files take back seat in midterms but experts say issue has not gone away
Other voter concerns have prevailed but return of Congress likely to see renewed focus on late sex offender’s activities As US voters head to the polls for crucial and fraught midterm elections, some survivors’ advocates in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation have expressed concern that the scandal could recede into the background. Political experts believe, however, the Epstein issue is not going away permanently and…
Key points
- Survivors' advocates worry the Epstein scandal could fade during the midterm elections.
- Political experts say the issue is only temporarily overshadowed by voter concerns like affordability.
- Attention is expected to return when Congress reconvenes and considers new Epstein files legislation.
As US voters go to the polls for midterm elections, some advocates for survivors in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation fear the scandal may be pushed to the background. Political experts, however, believe the issue will not disappear permanently and that voters can weigh everyday concerns like affordability and AI alongside the Epstein case.
Spencer Kuvin of Goldlaw, who has represented multiple Epstein survivors, said his main worry is not public forgetfulness but that politicians and institutions will use global turmoil as an excuse to move on. He called for continued release of Epstein files and for Congress to demand accountability.
What advocates and lawyers say
Jennifer Freeman of Marsh Law, who represents numerous Epstein survivors, said it was disappointing that attention had been diverted from Epstein over the past year. She expressed confidence that the case would command focus and accountability again soon.
Freeman said she is pursuing a lawsuit against the US government for alleged negligence in investigating and prosecuting Epstein, and a class-action suit against his estate over child sex abuse images.
Justice should not have an expiration date, and it certainly should not be dictated by the news cycle.
— Spencer Kuvin
Why attention may return
Republican strategist Brittany Martinez said people can care about several things at once, but immediate concerns like gas prices and living costs can push Epstein out of the conversation. She expects less discussion for stretches rather than a permanent disappearance.
Shawn Donahue of the University at Buffalo noted Congress has been in recess, so the Epstein Files Transparency Act II has not been discussed. He said the issue could revive if Democrats win control, and Julie Roginsky said Epstein remains significant and may drive more conversation about survivors.
