Epstein files paralyze the House, forcing Johnson to cancel votes and start recess

Published July 22, 2025 12:40pm ET



The House is canceling votes and sending members home early this week as the chamber is paralyzed over the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) assuring Republicans that the Trump administration is taking care of it.

A whip notice sent Tuesday morning alerted that previously scheduled votes for Thursday are canceled, meaning House members will take their last votes on Wednesday afternoon before leaving Capitol Hill for a monthlong August recess. 

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