The Trump administration has released over 230,000 files about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. This comes after President Donald Trump ordered the declassification of all remaining documents. The files include FBI notes, foreign police reports, and memos about James Earl Ray’s behavior. Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, confirmed the release on July 21.

Gabbard said this step brings long-awaited transparency to a tragic chapter in American history. Some of the documents detail conversations with Ray’s former cellmate. Others include reports from Canadian police about Ray fleeing the country after King’s death.

Gabbard Says Over 100 Staff Worked To Scan Long-Hidden Files

Attorney General Pamela Bondi said the public deserves answers decades later. She praised President Trump’s direction in making these files public. 

"The Department of Justice is proud to partner with Director Gabbard and the ODNI at President Trump’s direction for this latest disclosure," Bondi said.

King’s children responded with a public statement. They acknowledged public interest in the case but expressed personal pain. They asked people to approach the files with respect and empathy. Their statement reminded the public that King’s death remains a personal loss to the family.

The released documents were hidden in storage for decades. Gabbard told Trump in April that they had never been scanned or reviewed before. Over 100 people worked nonstop to prepare the files for public release.

This is part of a wider effort that also includes declassified files on President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. The Trump administration promises no secrets will remain hidden. The files are now available for public access.