
President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing the release of all classified government files related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The move is intended to provide the public with long-sought information about the events that have been shrouded in secrecy for decades.
Trump signed the order in the Oval Office, stating that transparency on these matters is long overdue. “This is something the American people have been waiting for,” he said. Trump handed the signing pen to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the son of the late senator, who was present at the signing.
President Trump Orders Historic Transparency: JFK, RFK, and MLK Files to be Declassified
“This is a big one. A lot of people have been waiting for this for years, for decades. Everything will be revealed.” –President Trump pic.twitter.com/iYfF7huHj9
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 23, 2025
The National Archives had previously disclosed a vast majority of JFK-related files, with officials noting that about 97% of the documents were released in recent years. However, key portions remained restricted, fueling ongoing speculation and demands for full disclosure.
Made this video to explain how to be one of the first to browse the JFK files when they're released, per President Trump's order. Hope it helps! pic.twitter.com/pIPvvPevHO
— Jess Fields (@jessalanfields) January 23, 2025
Trump’s decision comes after previously delaying the release of certain documents during his first term. Intelligence agencies had argued that some information could compromise national security, leading Trump to withhold a number of records at the time.
🚨Trump has officially declassified the assassination files for MLK, JFK, and RFK
He asked his aide to give the pen he signed the EO to RFK Jr.
We just witnessed history pic.twitter.com/b0gDoTGvV4
— DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) January 23, 2025
The files concerning Martin Luther King Jr. were originally scheduled for release in 2027, but the executive order accelerates their availability to the public. The King family has expressed their interest in reviewing the documents before they are made widely accessible.
Trump: Declassifies JFK, RFK, and MLK files.
CIA & FBI: pic.twitter.com/biDq3w5s3w— Anton Rubaclini (@AntonRubaclini) January 23, 2025
“Give that pen to RFK Jr” – President Trump after signing the order to DECLASSIFY the JFK, RFK and MLK files.
The Internet is about BREAK!!
— Alec Lace (@AlecLace) January 23, 2025
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) praised the president’s action, saying the American public has a right to see the truth that has been withheld for too long. She affirmed her commitment to continuing efforts for further government transparency.