Democratic candidates and aligned groups have spent more than $50 million on advertisements referencing Jeffrey Epstein documents during the 2026 midterm campaigns, far outpacing Republican spending on the topic.

The ads primarily attack Republican senators and House candidates who initially opposed legislation mandating the release of federal records tied to the late financier and sex offender. Data from AdImpact shows Democrats accounting for the bulk of the $53 million total in competitive races, with heavy investment in Senate contests in Georgia, Texas, and Ohio.

Republicans have responded with their own spots defending their records on the issue and accusing Democrats of political exploitation. Some GOP candidates, including Rep. Ashley Hinson of Iowa, directly addressed family concerns in response to claims linking their donors to the files.

The renewed focus comes nearly two years after the Justice Department released millions of pages of Epstein-related documents. Advocates for survivors have criticized the releases as incomplete and called for further disclosures through measures like the proposed Epstein Files Transparency Act II.

Polls indicate the scandal resonates with voters across party lines, with one survey finding that 88 percent of likely midterm voters, including 83 percent of Republicans, prioritize candidates who support accountability and full file releases. Justice for Epstein victims ranked higher than several other issues in voter priorities.

Experts note that while the topic has taken a back seat to economic concerns for many voters ahead of the November elections, renewed congressional attention after the recess could revive the debate. Democrats project gains in House control and have signaled plans to pursue additional investigations if they prevail.

The Trump administration has overseen batches of document releases following legislation signed into law, though some materials remain withheld pending further review. Protesters have interrupted events featuring President Trump and other Republicans to demand more transparency.

Survivors' attorneys continue to push for enforcement mechanisms and broader accountability, warning that election-year distractions risk sidelining the issue permanently without sustained pressure.