Mike Johnson says he'll vote for Epstein files bill

U.S. Virgin Islands Delegate Stacey Plaskett defended her texting with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating that as a prosecutor, gathering information from various sources is essential. This defense comes amid scrutiny over her communications with Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019, which has sparked controversy and allegations of impropriety.

Former Harvard President Larry Summers announced he will continue teaching despite stepping back from public activities following the revelation of extensive communications with Jeffrey Epstein. Summers expressed his commitment to providing important instruction to his economics class amid the backlash.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) on Wednesday dismissed the House GOP's efforts to repeal a provision in the government shutdown bill that would allow senators to sue the Justice Department over phone surveillance. Thune argued that the provision, which grants Republican senators the ability to seek $500,000 in damages, was narrowly focused and unnecessary.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) opposed an effort by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to repeal a provision in the recent government funding bill. This provision allows senators to sue the Justice Department for surveillance of their activities. Thune criticized the repeal attempt, emphasizing the importance of the provision for Republican senators.

The US Attorney General, Pam Bondi, announced that the Justice Department will release files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days, following the US Senate's passage of a bill mandating the release. However, there may be material withheld that could impact an ongoing investigation ordered by Donald Trump. As of now, Trump has not scheduled time to sign the bill.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced a $15 million reward for information leading to the capture of former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, who faces new charges related to a drug-trafficking operation. Wedding, a 44-year-old Canadian citizen residing in Mexico, is charged with nine offenses, including witness tampering, intimidation, murder, money laundering, and drug-related crimes.

Democratic Delegate Stacey Plaskett stated that she was gathering information from Jeffrey Epstein when she texted him during a congressional hearing in 2019. This revelation has sparked controversy and scrutiny regarding the appropriateness of her communications with Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett accused Lee Zeldin, the Trump EPA Administrator, of accepting donations from an individual named Jeffrey Epstein. However, records indicate that the Epstein in question is not the notorious financier and convicted sex offender, leading to a clarification from Zeldin's camp.