The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of official records concerning the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to delay the joint action involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a massive majority.
“The American people have been patient long enough. The survivors have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Reveal the truth. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next goes to Trump for his endorsement. Trump signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months dismissed the controversy over the official management of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it is presented to him.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who said he feared the measure would disclose specific data of people, those under scrutiny and others involved in the investigation.
Additional Headlines
- Trump is under fire for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in the state of Texas that gave Republicans additional districts.
- Many of Department of Education's authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to Raleigh, with authorities confirming ongoing activities.
