Why is Trump Releasing the Final Files on the Assassinations of JFK, RFK, and MLK?

In a groundbreaking move, former President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order mandating the declassification of documents related to the infamous assassinations of former President John F. Kennedy (JFK), his brother Senator Robert F. Kennedy (RFK), and civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK). This monumental decision is seen as a quest for transparency surrounding the tragic events that have captivated the American public for decades.

Key Points of Trump's Declassification Order

The executive order requires that the National Intelligence Director and Attorney General collaborate with various government agencies to present a plan for releasing the "full and complete" array of records concerning JFK's assassination within 15 days, while similar records for RFK and MLK will follow within 45 days. The order emphasizes the urgent need for "transparency and truth," stating, "It is in the national interest to finally release all records related to these assassinations without delay."

A Closer Look at the Assassinations

- **John F. Kennedy** was assassinated on November 22, 1963, while riding in a motorcade in Dallas, Texas. Accompanied by his wife, Jackie, and Texas Governor John Connally, the attack left JFK mortally wounded and Connally injured. The Warren Commission, tasked with investigating the assassination, concluded that 24-year-old Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, a finding that remains controversial among historians and conspiracy theorists alike.

- **Robert F. Kennedy**, who followed in his brother's political footsteps, was shot on June 5, 1968, just after delivering victory remarks upon winning the California Democratic primary. Sirhan Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian, was apprehended and is currently serving a life sentence for the murder.

- **Martin Luther King, Jr.** was fatally shot on April 4, 1968. A prominent leader in the Civil Rights Movement, he was killed on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. James Earl Ray was arrested and subsequently confessed to the murder, but many—including MLK's family—believe that his death was the product of a larger conspiracy involving government agencies.

The Context of Document Releases

Since the enactment of a 1992 law mandating the release of JFK assassination files, around 320,000 documents have been reviewed, with 99 percent already made public. However, the release of remaining documents has often been stymied due to pressure from agencies like the CIA and FBI. Recent releases underscored the ongoing public interest and intensified calls for full disclosure.

The Conspiracy Theories That Persist

The shadowy aura surrounding the assassinations has triggered a slew of conspiracy theories. Many believe that Oswald and Sirhan did not act alone, and that their actions were possibly orchestrated or covered up by larger forces, including the CIA. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., son of RFK, has publicly stated that there exists "overwhelming" evidence of CIA involvement in his uncle’s assassination. Similarly, members of MLK's family have expressed doubts about the legal accountability of James Earl Ray, questioning the legitimacy of his conviction.

In 1999, MLK’s family even filed a lawsuit suggesting that their father’s death involved a conspiracy with government collusion, and a jury ruled that Jowers and other unnamed conspirators were responsible. This ruling, however, was met with skepticism in many circles and adds to the complexities of these historical tragedies.

Conclusion: A Leap Toward Truth?

As the nation braces for the release of these long-awaited documents, many are left pondering whether the truth behind these pivotal moments in American history will finally emerge. The declassification process could either silence or further ignite the flames of speculation regarding the deaths of these significant figures in American history. What newly revealed information might come to light, and could it change public perception forever? Only time will tell.