The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday quickly approved to a bill that will force the release of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Trump's team relented after months of trying to forestall the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Approval in Congress
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have waited long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to approve it without opposition. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next heads to Trump for his endorsement. He signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months rejected the outcry over the official management of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the measure over the weekend, and stated he would sign the measure if it comes to him.
Reaction
Opposition lawmakers, along with survivors of Epstein and their representatives who were seated in a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he worried the measure would disclose specific data of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Other Stories
- Trump faces criticism for labeling a correspondent as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that gave GOP extra districts.
- A significant number of Department of Education's powers transferred to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Large-scale operations expand to the state's capital, with local officials noting ongoing activities.
