One of the significant actions taken by Donald Trump during his early presidency was the declassification of crucial records linked to the assassinations of prominent figures such as former President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy Sr., and civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. After signing various executive orders from the Oval Office, Trump elaborated on the timeline for public access to these declassified documents and the motivations behind his decision, emphasizing the necessity of transparency regarding these historical events.
In his executive order, Trump remarked, “I have determined that the release of all records in the Federal Government’s possession pertaining to each of those assassinations is also in the public interest.” His statement highlights the administration’s commitment to providing clarity and access to information that has been long sought after by the American populace.
Discover comprehensive details about the declassified files concerning JFK, RFK Sr., and MLK Jr. below. This information sheds light on significant moments in American history and the ongoing quest for truth regarding these pivotal events.
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
Key Dates for the Release of JFK Files
In accordance with Trump’s executive order, the anticipated release of the declassified JFK files is contingent upon the director of national intelligence and the attorney general presenting a structured plan to the president. This plan is expected to facilitate the comprehensive release of records related to JFK’s assassination “within 15 days of the date of this order,” marking a significant step toward transparency regarding this historical event.
On March 17, 2025, Trump informed the press that his administration had intentions to unveil approximately 80,000 files the following day, March 18, as reported by the Associated Press. This announcement generated considerable anticipation among historians, researchers, and the general public eager to access these long-awaited documents.
Timeline for the Declassification of RFK & MLK Records
According to Trump’s executive order, the roles of the director of national intelligence and the attorney general extend to reviewing essential records associated with the assassinations of RFK Sr. and MLK Jr.. They are required to devise a plan to present to the president aimed at the full and complete release of these records “within 45 days” of the executive order, ensuring that the public gains access to information that has been withheld for decades.
The Rationale Behind Declassifying Assassination Records
The executive order issued by Trump articulates his belief that the ongoing redaction and withholding of information from records concerning the assassination of President John F. Kennedy is inconsistent with the public’s interest. He emphasized that the time has come for the release of these records, which he deems as long overdue, aiming to foster greater understanding and closure regarding these pivotal historical events.
The White House echoed this sentiment, stating, “It is in the national interest to finally release all records related to these assassinations without delay.” They highlighted that over 50 years have elapsed since the tragic assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The families of these figures, along with the American public, deserve transparency and truth regarding these significant events in the nation’s history.
