Wisconsin voters hearing the final stretch of the governor’s race should know exactly what Rep. Tom Tiffany, the Republican candidate, did in July 2025 regarding the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. The vote in question was not a direct decision on releasing the unclassified files, but a procedural vote on a separate cryptocurrency bill.
What the vote actually covered
In November 2025, the House considered a Democratic amendment that would have attached a requirement for the Justice Department to release the Epstein files to an unrelated cryptocurrency bill. The amendment was procedural – it would have forced a separate vote on the release requirement. Tiffany voted no on the procedural measure, meaning he opposed moving the amendment forward. Voting “yes” would have opened the door to a vote on requiring the files’ release.
Campaign ad claims
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Tiffany’s Democratic opponent, aired a television ad on Oct. 20 that said Tiffany “voted to block the release of the Epstein files.” The ad suggests a direct opposition to transparency, but the record shows the vote was about the amendment’s procedure, not the files themselves.
Tiffany’s response
When asked about the ad, Tiffany’s campaign emphasized that the vote was a procedural decision and that he has consistently supported the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which he helped pass in November 2024. That law directs the Justice Department to publish any unclassified documents from the investigation, a step already taken in January when roughly 3.5 million pages were released.
Why the distinction matters
Wisconsin voters care about both transparency and the integrity of legislative process. A procedural vote can be mischaracterized as a policy stance, especially in a heated campaign. By clarifying the nature of the vote, Tiffany’s team aims to keep the focus on his broader record, including his support for the transparency law and his work on issues important to families and faith‑based communities.
Broader context
The Epstein investigation remains a national conversation, and the push for full disclosure continues. While the Justice Department has released millions of pages, advocates still call for additional documents. Both candidates have expressed support for the transparency law, but the campaign ad has turned a procedural vote into a political talking point.
What voters should watch
As the Nov. 3 election approaches, Wisconsin residents should examine each candidate’s voting record, statements, and policy positions. Understanding the specifics of legislative votes helps avoid misinformation and ensures voters make informed choices based on facts, not campaign sound bites.
Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.
