“Both the victims and the American people deserve clear answers so that we can confront the truth, pursue justice, and move forward. This should not be a partisan issue.” — Rep. Kevin Kiley
El Dorado County – In Washington D.C., the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved legislation Tuesday seeking the full release of federal investigative documents in the criminal-sextrafficking case of convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein. The 427-1 vote – with only GOP Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana dissenting – marks bipartisan consensus on a measure that emphasizes transparency and accountability.
Local constituents of California’s 3rd Congressional District – which includes portions of El Dorado County – will note that their representative, Congressman Kevin Kiley, voted in favour of the measure, stating:
“Throughout this process, I have consistently supported transparency, while ensuring that the privacy and dignity of victims remain fully protected. Both the victims and the American people deserve clear answers so that we can confront the truth, pursue justice, and move forward. This should not be a partisan issue.”
Key Facts & Timeline:
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The bill (popularly referenced as the “Epstein Files Transparency Act”) directs the U.S. Department of Justice to disclose all unclassified records, documents, communications and investigative materials in its possession related to Epstein’s case.
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On Nov. 18, 2025 at approximately 2:43 p.m. ET, the House voted 427 in favour, 1 against (Rep. Higgins) and 5 not voting.
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The legislation now advances to the U.S. Senate; though some Senate leaders had earlier voiced concerns about redactions and victim confidentiality.
For residents of El Dorado County and the wider Sacramento-Sierra foothills region represented by Kiley, the vote underscores three important implications:
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Transparency – A robust signal that elected officials are responding to a long-standing public demand for clarity in high-profile investigations.
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Representation – The fact that Kiley joined the overwhelming majority means your district’s voice aligned with the bipartisan consensus in favour of disclosure.
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Link to Redistricting Concerns – At the same time, Kiley referenced his separate initiative, H.R. 4889, to ban states from conducting mid-decade congressional redrawing, citing California’s own recent redistricting debates.
In a second statement regarding the redistricting matter, Kiley added:
“It is clearer than ever that there are no ‘winners’ in this foolish redistricting war… It is not too late for Speaker Johnson to do the right thing by supporting my bill to end this madness.”
Stakeholders & Interests:
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Survivors of Epstein’s abuse: The legislation is intended to provide greater access to records that may affect their rights, awareness and ability to seek justice.
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Congressional leadership: The measure forced a conflict between leadership’s previous reluctance (citing victim protection and national-security concerns) and growing pressure for openness.
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Voters in California’s 3rd District: The vote gives a concrete action for Kiley to reference in communicating with constituents about his priorities.
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State redistricting interests: With California considering major changes to maps and other states watching, Kiley’s redistricting bill speaks to the broader national debate.
What Happens Next:
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The bill now advances to the Senate, where it may be subject to amendments or delays, notwithstanding leadership signals.
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Kiley’s H.R. 4889 remains in committee; as of his public statements it has not yet been brought to a House floor vote.
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Constituent offices in Kiley’s district, including local liaison offices, may increasingly field inquiries about how these federal issues affect local voting rights, district boundaries and transparency expectations.
Bottom Line:
The near-unanimous House vote marks a milestone in federal transparency efforts; for El Dorado County constituents the support from their representative, Kevin Kiley, also frames the action within a broader narrative of upholding the integrity of elections and representation.
