The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a controversy that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Just before, the House voted decisively for the bill on a near-unanimous vote.
The public have been patient long enough. Those affected have waited long enough,” Chuck Schumer stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Ensure full disclosure.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next will be sent to Donald Trump for his approval. He indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months dismissed the outcry over the government’s handling of the Epstein case as a “Democrat hoax”, he signalled his support for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would give his assent if it reaches his desk.
Support and Opposition
The Democratic party, along with victims and their supporters who were watching from a public section, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who said he was concerned the measure would reveal identifying details of people, persons of interest and others implicated in the investigation.
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