Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has stated that the escalating conflict with President Donald Trump centers on the Epstein files.
She emphasized the need for transparency in these documents, telling CNN's Dana Bash on State of the Union that rich and powerful people should not be protected if they have done anything wrong.
Greene added that she has no idea what is in the files.
The Georgia Republican, once a close Trump ally, has faced recent attacks from the president over her advocacy for releasing federal files related to Jeffrey Epstein, which presumably detail the financier's crimes and potential involvement of others.
Trump called Greene a ranting lunatic on Friday and withdrew his support, then labeled her a traitor on Saturday.
Greene denied being a traitor, described Trump's comments as hurtful, and warned that such words could radicalize people and endanger her life. She mentioned receiving threats and contacts from private security firms.
Greene linked the animosity directly to the Epstein files, saying it has all come down to these documents.
The House is expected to vote Tuesday on legislation forcing the release of the federal files, following a discharge petition by Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie.
Thousands of documents, including emails between Epstein and others, have already been released, some appearing to implicate Trump, though Greene clarified she does not believe Trump is implicated.
She criticized Trump's defense of the H-1B visa program as not America first positions and expressed displeasure with his frequent foreign trips, suggesting Air Force One should stay home to focus on Americans.
Despite the break, local GOP leadership in Georgia's 14th District supports Greene, with Chairman Jim Tully stating she serves with clarity, resolve, and integrity.
Rep. Thomas Massie warned Republicans that voting against release would stain their futures, noting the record will last longer than Trump's presidency.
Greene apologized for past toxic politics, calling it bad for the country.