The Senate on this Tuesday gave swift approval to a measure that will force the release of investigative files related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the lower house and a shift by Donald Trump and his GOP allies. The administration gave in after an extended period of trying to forestall the joint action involving a scandal that has followed the president since his return to the White House.
Swift Passage in Congress
Senators proceeded by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a recorded vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House voted decisively for the bill on a 427-1 tally.
Citizens have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the top Senate Democrat stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Uncover the facts. Ensure full disclosure.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his approval. Trump indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Although Trump has for months downplayed the controversy over the official management of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he voiced approval for the measure over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.
Reaction
The Democratic party, along with victims and their representatives who were present in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from Clay Higgins, who said he was concerned the measure would make public personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
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