8 Insights into Khanna’s Role in the Epstein Files Vote

1. What was the result of the House vote?

The House voted overwhelmingly, 427-1, to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act. This margin, typically seen only for ceremonial proclamations, represents a significant legislative victory. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene described the contentious process leading up to the vote as a fight that "ripped MAGA apart," marking a major defeat for those seeking to keep the records hidden. 

2. Why did MAGA lawmakers say the vote ‘ripped the movement apart’?

The near-unanimous vote revealed fractures within MAGA, where loyalty to Trump clashed with public pressure to release the Epstein files. 

3. What prompted Khanna to champion this cause?

 Initially, Khanna saw the Epstein files as a way to target the "elite class" who sell out American communities. However, his motivation shifted after "emotionally horrific" meetings with Epstein survivors. Witnessing their trauma and desire to reclaim their experiences turned the political tactic into a moral imperative. He expressed regret for not being more vocal on the issue during the Biden administration. 

4. What is the ‘Epstein Class’?

 Khanna uses this term to describe a specific type of corruption that goes beyond standard wealth inequality. He defines the "Epstein class" as men so rich, powerful, and interconnected that they possess the means and audacity to operate a "rape island" without consequences. He argues the vote is about exposing the "rottenness in our civilization" that allowed this immunity to persist. 

5. How did a Democrat lead this effort with Republicans?

 Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) orchestrated the vote by partnering with conservative Republicans like Rep. Thomas Massie and Greene. They utilized a "discharge petition" to force the vote to the floor. Massie admitted their chance of success was initially "about 4 percent," crediting the victory to his pre-existing working relationship with Khanna on previous anti-war legislation. 

6. What was Khanna’s strategy to get support? 

Khanna focused on "economic patriotism" and leveraged his willingness to engage with right-wing media and politicians. He actively maneuvered on the House floor, even physically helping Rep. Lauren Boebert sign the discharge petition so she wouldn't have to wait in line. His strategy relied on playing down the Democratic role to woo GOP support while framing the issue as a fight against a rigged system. 

7. Why is this vote significant for Khanna’s ambitions?

 Khanna views this victory as proof he can "get things done" beyond just writing op-eds, distinguishing himself as a serious party leader. He openly discusses his desire to shape the future of the Democratic Party and is eyeing a potential long-shot presidential run in 2028. He believes this success validates his theory that progressives can bring "disaffected MAGA voters" into their coalition. 

8. What comes next for this bipartisan alliance? 

Following this victory, Khanna is already discussing future legislation with Rep. Greene. Their potential agenda includes banning private equity firms from buying single-family homes. Khanna hopes to use this "proof of concept" to find crossover appeal on issues like cutting defense budgets and extending Medicare eligibility, aiming to build an enduring majority based on economic populism. 

This historic vote shatters the usual partisan gridlock, proving that populist anger against elite impunity can unite the far left and far right. For Ro Khanna, it serves as a launchpad for his 2028 ambitions and a test case for a new Democratic coalition strategy. Ultimately, the release of these files promises long-awaited transparency for survivors who have fought against institutional silence for decades.