Donald Trump fought for months to prevent the department of justice from releasing the so-called 'Epstein Files' but eventually signed a law passed by Congress requiring their publication. (EPA Images pic)WASHINGTON: Democratic lawmakers called on Monday, eight days before crucial US midterm elections, for the appointment of a special counsel to probe President Donald Trump's ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In a 53-page report, Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee revived allegations of sexual misconduct made against Republican Trump, a one-time close friend of the disgraced financier.

Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges involving minors in what was determined to be a suicide.