The upper chamber of Congress on Tuesday gave swift approval to a bill that will require the publication of investigative files concerning the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, speeding up the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a massive majority.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the chamber to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
The measure next will be sent to Trump for his approval. The president signaled on the previous day that he would endorse the legislation.
Though the president has for months rejected the controversy over the official management of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the measure over the weekend, and announced he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Response
The Democratic party, along with those affected and their advocates who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was approved. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of people, those under scrutiny and others caught up in the investigation.
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