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Jeffrey Epstein files released as California's 'billionaire tax' divides Democrats

Millions of Epstein documents are now public—but will they reshape politics? Meanwhile, California's wealth tax battle reveals deep cracks in the Democratic Party.

The image shows an open book with the title "The Report from the Committee of Secrecy, Appointed by...
The image shows an open book with the title "The Report from the Committee of Secrecy, Appointed by Order of the House of Commons" printed on the cover. The book is likely a collection of documents related to the committee of secrecy, as indicated by the title.

Jeffrey Epstein files released as California's 'billionaire tax' divides Democrats

The US Justice Department has released over 3 million pages of records linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The documents include more than 180,000 images and over 2,000 videos. Their public release follows a November measure passed by Congress requiring full transparency on the case.

Meanwhile, a proposed tax on California's wealthiest residents has sparked division among Democrats. With no major challengers to Governor Gavin Newsom in sight, the debate over the 'billionaire tax' continues to split party members.

The Epstein files were made public after lawmakers demanded their release in late 2023. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that the White House played no role in reviewing the documents. Despite this, public disapproval of former President Trump's handling of the case remains high, with 71% of Americans—including 27% of his own supporters—expressing dissatisfaction.

In California, the proposed 'billionaire tax' has exposed rifts within the Democratic Party. While Governor Gavin Newsom and other state leaders oppose the measure, figures like Rep. Ro Khanna and billionaire Tom Steyer have voiced support. With Newsom's term running until 2027 and no Democratic challengers emerging, the tax debate remains unresolved.

Back in Washington, Sen. Thom Tillis had previously warned that the Epstein case could impact the 2022 midterms. Now, with the files public, their political fallout remains uncertain.

The Epstein records are now accessible, but their long-term effects on public opinion and politics are still unfolding. In California, the 'billionaire tax' proposal continues to divide Democrats, with no clear resolution in sight. Governor Newsom's opposition and the lack of challengers mean the debate will likely persist without immediate change.

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