WASHINGTON – Representative Clay Higgins (R-Louisiana) cast the only dissenting vote Tuesday night during a House vote compelling the release of investigative files pertaining to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Higgins defended his decision as a matter of principle.

The House voted overwhelmingly to release the documents, aiming to shed light on potential complicity by powerful individuals who may have been associated with Epstein. The vote compels the release of records held by the Department of Justice and other federal agencies. The push for transparency has gained momentum following recent reporting and public outcry.

Higgins explained his opposition, stating that while he condemns Epstein's crimes and supports accountability, he believes the release of these specific files could compromise ongoing investigations and potentially expose sensitive information unrelated to Epstein's offenses. He did not elaborate on the specifics of those concerns.

The release of the Epstein files has been a contentious issue, with proponents arguing for public access to information about those who may have enabled or benefited from Epstein’s actions. Opponents, including Higgins, have raised concerns about the potential for harm to individuals and ongoing investigations. The released documents are expected to be made public in the coming weeks, and their contents are likely to face intense scrutiny.