House Speaker Mike Johnson calls a 20-year term a “pittance” for convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) appeared on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday morning with moderator Kristen Welker, making strong statements on Ghislaine Maxwell’s 20-year prison sentence and pushing for the full release of credible Jeffrey Epstein-related files.
During the interview, Johnson minced no words regarding Ghislaine Maxwell’s sentence, calling it “a pittance” and asserting that “she should have a life sentence at least.”
He emphasized the “unspeakable crimes” and the “1,000 victims” likely involved in the Epstein network, stating that Maxwell’s orchestration and involvement were “an unforgivable thing.”
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When pressed on whether Maxwell, who recently met with the Deputy Attorney General, could be trusted, Speaker Johnson expressed hope that “she’s telling the truth” and affirmed the House’s interest in “knowing everything that she knows.”
He highlighted the House Oversight Committee’s independent subpoena for Maxwell’s testimony, underscoring the legislative branch’s commitment to uncovering the full truth.
Regarding a potential pardon or commutation for Maxwell, a question that has gained traction following remarks by President Donald Trump, Johnson remained circumspect. While acknowledging it as a “decision of the president” and “not my lane,” he reiterated his overarching principle: “We are for maximum disclosure. We want all transparency.”
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Johnson firmly stated his agreement with President Trump, the Department of Justice, and the FBI that “all credible evidence and information” related to Jeffrey Epstein should be made public.
However, he stressed the crucial need to “protect innocent people’s names and reputations” and, most importantly, the “innocent victims,” particularly the minors who suffered “unspeakable crimes.” He voiced concerns that certain legislative efforts, like the Massie and Khanna discharge petition, lack adequate protections for victims and could inadvertently release false information or grand jury testimony prohibited by law.
Johnson assured viewers that House Republicans are working on a “well-drafted” resolution that would ensure the release of information while safeguarding victims.
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He also addressed the recent early adjournment of the House, explaining it was to “end the chaos in the Rules Committee” caused by what he called Democrats’ “shameless manner for political purposes” in trying to hijack the committee for an Epstein hearing. He clarified that the timing of the Massie-Khanna petition meant it wouldn’t ripen until after a long-scheduled recess.
The Speaker concluded by reiterating the House Republicans’ unwavering stance: “House Republicans insist upon the release of all credible evidence and information related to Epstein in any way, but we are also insisting upon the protection of innocent victims.”
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