The Senate on this Tuesday quickly approved to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of official records concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House relented after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a case that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
The public have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The bill next will be sent to Donald Trump for his signature. Trump indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for an extended period dismissed the controversy over the authorities' approach of the investigation as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, cheered after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, potential suspects and others implicated in the investigation.
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