The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of investigative files associated with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a case that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Let transparency reign.”
Future Action
This legislation next heads to Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from Clay Higgins, who expressed concern he feared the measure would make public personal information of witnesses, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Additional Stories
- The president receives backlash for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in Texas that gave GOP additional districts.
- Many of Department of Education's powers moved to different agencies as part of administration efforts.
- Raids expand to the state's capital, with representatives confirming ongoing activities.
