Rep. Nancy Mace exited a closed-door congressional meeting with Jeffrey Epstein survivors amid emotional turmoil, according to witnesses. The South Carolina representative was seen leaving the session early, visibly shaken and in tears, prompting immediate media attention.

Mace did not respond to questions from reporters as she departed the building, but later explained her reaction on social media. She described experiencing a “full-blown panic attack” during the hearing, citing personal trauma from past sexual assault experiences. “I had a very difficult time listening to their stories,” Mace wrote. “Sweating. Hyperventilating. Shaking. I can’t breathe.”

The House Oversight Committee continued its investigation into Epstein’s case, with multiple victims providing testimony during the session. Details of their accounts remain undisclosed. Democrats emphasized the need for transparency, urging the committee to prioritize survivor narratives that they claim were overlooked in federal records. The Justice Department has begun releasing documents related to the case following a subpoena.

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated before the meeting that Congress aimed to “ensure maximum transparency” and deliver justice for victims. He acknowledged the “immense pain” endured by survivors, vowing to expedite the process.

The closed-door session highlighted ongoing scrutiny of Epstein’s legal proceedings and the federal government’s role in the matter.