
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday directing the release of remaining government files related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The decision marks a significant step in fulfilling his campaign promise to provide greater transparency on these high-profile cases.
During the signing ceremony at the White House, Trump said, “A lot of people have been waiting for this,” underscoring the public’s deep interest in the files. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been nominated to serve in Trump’s administration, received the signing pen as a symbolic gesture.
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 previously made the majority of the JFK-related records public, with officials stating that 97% of the collection had already been disclosed. However, many files remained classified under past administrations, leading to speculation about potential hidden details concerning the Kennedy assassination.
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 had previously approved a partial release of the records during his first term but deferred to intelligence agencies that argued some materials could jeopardize national security. With this new order, those concerns are set aside in favor of full disclosure.
🚨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 Martin Luther King Jr. files, initially scheduled for public release in 2027, are also included in the executive action. The King family responded by requesting the opportunity to review the documents before they are made widely available.
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) commended Trump’s move, calling it a step toward restoring trust in government and ensuring accountability in historical matters that have long been shrouded in secrecy.