Massie on Epstein files: Can't avoid justice to avoid embarrassment for powerful men

Khanna says there will be enough votes in the House to force the files' release.

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., responded to why President Trump is probably resisting the full release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, citing ties with others’ deep pockets.

“I think it's going to be embarrassing to some of the billionaires, some of the donors who are politically connected to his campaign. There are probably intelligence ties to our CIA and maybe to other foreign intelligence,” Massie told ABC News' "This Week" anchor George Stephanopoulos.

Massie emphasized how those who were involved in the allegations need to be held accountable regardless of social status.

“We can't avoid justice just to avoid embarrassment for some very powerful men,” Massie said.

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., appeared alongside Rep. Thomas Massie as the bipartisan duo has been urging their fellow members of the House to vote in favor of releasing the Epstein files amid strong opposition from the White House.

“This is a moral issue. It's about standing with survivors. It's about protecting children. I admire Congressman Massie's courage. I admire Nancy Mason's courage. Marjorie Taylor Greene's courage, Lauren Boebert’s courage. They are standing with survivors. We have the votes. Let's get a vote this month and get their files released," Khanna said.

Khanna shared his concerns for the chance that some of the files could be scrubbed if released to the public.

“It's a concern. But the victim's lawyer, Bradley Edwards, has seen the files, as have many people who are career officials. So if they try to do something that is political, then, many other people would call them out on it,” Khanna said.

Khanna said there will be enough votes in the House to force a vote on his and Massie's discharge petition to release the files.

"We have the 218 votes, 216 already support it. There are two vacancies that haven't been reported as much, but two Democrats are going to be joining and they are both committed to signing it. That's going to happen by the end of September," Khanna said.

Their appearance on ABC News comes after survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse shared their stories on Capitol Hill, highlighting how they seek justice and demand that the federal government release of tens of thousands of files and records related to the convicted sex offender.