The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team gave in after months of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Just before, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. Those affected have waited long enough,” the top Senate Democrat said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The measure next goes to Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Although the president has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were present in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The only opposition came from a GOP representative, who expressed concern he feared the measure would disclose identifying details of witnesses, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Other News Updates
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- Raids move to North Carolina capital, with representatives noting ongoing activities.
