Democratic lawmakers have released documents related to Jeffrey Epstein that mention Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Steve Bannon. The six-page release, provided with redactions, comes from the Justice Department to the House oversight committee. The committee is examining how the sex-trafficking charges against Epstein, who died in 2019, were managed.
The documents include copies of Epstein’s calendars. One shows a February 2019 breakfast with Bannon, a Trump ally. Another notes a lunch with Thiel in November 2017. Epstein’s calendar also mentions a potential visit by Musk to Epstein’s private island in December 2014.
A 2000 manifest for Epstein’s plane lists Prince Andrew. A financial disclosure from the same year shows payments from Epstein to someone named “Andrew” for services described as “Massage, Exercise, Yoga.”
Earlier this year, Musk criticized former President Trump on social media regarding the so-called “Epstein files.” In July, Musk questioned how people could trust Trump if he did not release Epstein’s records.
Sara Guerrero, a spokesperson for the oversight committee, emphasized the importance of the newly released documents. She said the files show Epstein’s ties to some of the wealthiest and most powerful men. Guerrero noted that each new release provides fresh information to pursue justice for survivors.
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell from California commented on X following the release, suggesting Trump’s camp may have retaliated against Musk. Swalwell asked publicly what Musk knows about Trump’s involvement.
The Republican-led committee criticized Democrats for selectively releasing records. They argued that documents containing names of Democratic officials were being withheld. Their statement promised to release all files soon, accusing Democrats of prioritizing politics over victims.
Democrat Robert Garcia responded, insisting that all names in the Epstein documents, regardless of party or wealth, would be exposed to pursue justice. He urged the full release of the files.
The newly released records add to ongoing scrutiny over the government’s handling of Epstein’s case. Democrats in the House are working with a small number of Republicans to push legislation that would force the release of all Epstein files. The effort requires 218 signatures to advance, a threshold expected to be met after Democrat Adelita Grijalva won a recent Arizona special election.
Any bill passed by the House must also gain Senate approval. Senate Republicans have shown little interest, and Trump, who labeled the Epstein controversy a “Democrat hoax,” would also need to sign the legislation for it to become law.
The released documents, while limited, continue to fuel debate over Epstein’s connections with prominent figures. Musk and Thiel’s mentions in the files highlight ongoing questions about relationships between Epstein and influential business and political leaders.
The oversight committee has committed to further releases to ensure transparency. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the situation as efforts to expose the full extent of Epstein’s network continue.
The public and political figures alike are awaiting additional records that may reveal new details. Observers say the case remains a key test of congressional oversight and accountability in high-profile investigations.
Requests for comment from Musk and Thiel have been made but not yet answered. The unfolding revelations are expected to keep attention on the case as lawmakers and the public continue to demand answers.
