Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, announced Thursday that he plans to investigate Vice President J.D. Vance's role in what he characterized as the Trump administration's handling of matters related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Garcia's announcement follows a New York Times report that allegedly detailed Vance's involvement in White House actions concerning Epstein-related issues. The congressman described the administration's approach as a "cover-up" of actions tied to the now-deceased financier who was convicted on sex trafficking charges.

The investigation pledge comes amid ongoing political tensions surrounding the release of files related to Epstein's case. According to NBC News, four Republicans who previously supported legislation to release Epstein files have faced political consequences from President Trump.

Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. His case has continued to generate political controversy, with various officials calling for transparency regarding government files related to his activities and associations.

Neither the Vice President's office nor the White House immediately responded to requests for comment regarding Garcia's announced investigation plans. The scope and timeline for any potential congressional inquiry have not been specified.