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Trump’s Executive Order on JFK, RFK, MLK Files

Trump Orders Declassification of Kennedy and King Assassination Records

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order for the declassification of files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. The order sets a timeline for officials to plan the release:

  • 15 days to propose a plan for JFK files
  • 45 days for RFK and MLK records

Trump emphasized the significance of this decision, stating, "A lot of people were waiting for this for years, for decades."

This action aims to fulfill a campaign promise and serve the public interest. Trump remarked that these disclosures are about restoring "transparency and accountability to government." The order doesn't immediately declassify the records but sets a defined schedule for their release.

Trump stated, "It is in the national interest to finally release all records related to these assassinations without delay." This move addresses the delay and redactions that have persisted beyond the 1992 congressional deadline for JFK's records, while also including the equally crucial RFK and MLK files.

Historical Context and Public Interest

The President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 mandated the release of all assassination-related documents by 2017. This law exemplified America's republican values of transparency and accountability while balancing national interests.

However, the path to disclosure has seen delays and exceptions:

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  • During his first term, President Trump initiated the process but allowed a six-month review for national security concerns.
  • President Biden later postponed additional releases, citing ongoing military and intelligence operation concerns.

These delays were often justified by the need to protect national security, law enforcement, and foreign relations. Critics argue that many withholdings were excessive, fueling conspiracy theories. The public's desire for transparent governance is heightened by memories of prior leaks and heavily redacted documents.

Skepticism around these assassinations, particularly JFK's, remains strong. The official account of Lee Harvey Oswald acting alone has been debated extensively. The continued secrecy around certain records only intensifies public doubt and suspicion.

As the declassification process begins, there is anticipation for how these documents might align with or challenge widely held perceptions. This intersection of constitutional integrity and public curiosity presents an opportunity for enlightenment.

A stack of documents representing the JFK Assassination Records Collection Act with the Capitol building in the background

Public Interest and Reaction

The declassification order has generated significant public interest. Many Americans have long awaited clarity on these pivotal events in U.S. history. The family of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has requested to review the files before their release to ensure sensitive information is handled appropriately, highlighting the personal impact these records hold.

Polls consistently show substantial public interest in these historical events. A Gallup survey reveals that a majority of Americans continue to doubt that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in JFK's assassination. This collective curiosity goes beyond historical interest, tapping into the core republican principle of transparency enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

"For us, the assassination of our father is a deeply personal family loss that we have endured over the last 56 years. We hope to be provided the opportunity to review the files as a family prior to its public release," the King family said in a statement.

While some remain skeptical about what the files might reveal, others hope these documents will either confirm or challenge their theories. President Trump's decision resonates with those who advocate for government openness over secrecy.

This move to declassify is not just about examining history; it's an act of aligning once-concealed information with fundamental American values. The release of these documents may reshape public understanding and discourse, potentially challenging long-standing historical accounts and institutional positions.

A crowd of diverse Americans looking expectantly at government buildings, symbolizing public interest in declassification
    1. Gallup. Majority in U.S. Still Believe JFK Killed in a Conspiracy. Gallup News. 2013. 2. National Archives. President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992. National Archives and Records Administration. 3. CBS News. Trump signs executive order to release JFK assassination files. CBS News. 2024. 4. NBC News. Trump orders release of JFK assassination files. NBC News. 2024. 5. Department of Justice. Investigation of Recent Allegations Regarding the Assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. U.S. Department of Justice. 2000.