The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will mandate the disclosure of investigative files associated with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The White House gave in after an extended period of trying to block the cross-party initiative involving a controversy that has plagued the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Approval in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which needs acceptance from each senator but does not require a recorded vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have been patient long enough. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before urging the Senate to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
The bill next heads to the president for his signature. Trump signaled on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Even though the president has for months dismissed the outcry over the government’s handling of the investigation as a “false narrative”, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and stated he would give his assent if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with victims and their representatives who were watching from a viewing area, broke into applause after the bill was enacted. Lone dissent came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, those under scrutiny and others implicated in the investigation.
Other Stories
- Trump faces criticism for referring to a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation aboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that allocated GOP extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s authorities moved to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Large-scale operations extend to North Carolina capital, with local officials confirming ongoing activities.
